Sleeping Beauty at the Oxford Playhouse
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Sleeping Beauty at the Oxford Playhouse
By Roy MartinDecember 15, 2008
Sleeping Beauty lends itself less well to panto capers than some other traditional stories.
But writer-director Peter Duncan’s production, his third at the Oxford Playhouse, gets plenty out of it as well as showcasing a star turn by Carrie Ellis as Bad Fairy.
Regarding the audience with contempt as she stalks about hatching her schemes she easily upstages Stephen Aintree’s bumbling Good Fairy.
But he has the advantage of doubling as Dame, a role to which he brings an endearing Les Dawson quality.
As Miffins, the equivalent of Buttons in Cinderella, and hopelessly in love with Lois Unwin’s princess, Robin Armstrong has no problem winning the audience’s sympathy.
And Joseph Attenborough is a dashing prince who can really sing.
As the princess’s parents Richard Stacey and Abi Finley also show off their musical skills.
The show also features a talking horse, a dragon, an elaborate dream sequence and a great retro finale.
Coming up at Oxford next Christmas - Jack and the Beanstalk.
For tickets call 01865 305305.
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