Malta's longest-running theatre company, the MADC, will once again stage its ever-popular pantomime this coming festive season - with panto veteran Alan Montanaro back with a bang and a flourish and some wildly extravagant outfits.
Montanaro has not only penned the script for this year's offering - the fantastical Arabian Nights spectacular Aladdin - but he also returns to the stage in the show as the larger-than-life panto Dame.
"We are thrilled to be welcoming Alan back to panto this year with Aladdin," says the show's director, Michael Mangion. "With his many years of panto experience and, of course, his trademark comedic flair, Alan is sure to help make Aladdin the side-splittingly funny and magical adventure that we've all come to expect from MADC's annual pantos."
Montanaro has indeed penned a family-friendly escapade that promises to take the audience on an enchanted trip to the Orient, with lighting, stage sets and effects sure to take the breath away. The story follows the poor young Aladdin as he goes on an intricate journey involving spirits and genies, magic rings and lamps, wishes and wonder, with, of course, plenty of exciting music, dancing, drama and fun.
Joining Montanaro on stage in the stellar production will be a cast of more than 30 actors and dancers including Stephen Oliver, John Montanaro, Alexander Gatesy Lewis, Jasmine Farrugia, Noel Zarb, Joseph Pavia, Karl Bartolo and Matthew Manfre. While fellow panto stalwart - and former Dame - Michael Mangion will be directing, the show will be choreographed by Francesco Nicodeme, with musical director Ryan Abela and lavish costumes designed by Isabel Warrington.
There are limited shows so book early.
Tickets at only €12, €22 and €26 with reduced rates available for children aged 11 and under on the €22 and €26 tickets. Children aged two and under enter for free with a toddler ticket. Visit www.madc.com.mt to book your family's tickets today, to join in the magic and wonder of MADC's Aladdin!
'Aladdin' will be performed at MFCC, Ta' Qali on 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 December and 3, 4 January at 7.30pm, with matinee performances at 3pm on 26, 28, 29 December and 4 January
Photo: Sebio Aquilina