The Curtain Theatre Reviewers

Friday 30th January 2026 "Beauty & The Beast: Pantomime" Kaleidoscope Players Duchess Theatre, Long Eaton ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars) It’s panto season! Oh no it’s not! As soon as you walk into the theatre you are surrounded by villagers and you’re taken to France with their accents and theming. The show follows the story of Belle who is desperately trying to avoid the self indulgent Jean-Claude and end up bumping into Prince Louis and his royal companion Jacques. The villain, Countess Cruella, does not like Jacques and casts a spell to change him into a beast. Belle takes the trek to the beasts castle to save her father and ends up falling in love with the beast which breaks the spell. The cast for this production is rather large, made up with 27 main cast and 5 juniors. The beautiful Belle, played by Alice Goodall , so gracefully yet so strong. With a hint to the iconic Disney princess, she holds her hair in a bow with a lovely blue dress. Her defensive nature against the bullying ...

  Tuesday 27th January 2026 "The Signalman" Derby Theatre ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars) As a fan of Charles Dickens, I was excited to see this gothic tale come to life. First impressions tabs closed, the suspense builds rapidly as the eerie piano music plays. The use of smoke and flashing lights as the trains go past starts the show and is used throughout, immediately leaving a chill in the air. Instantly, the set makes you feel as if you are right outside the signal box, with trees constantly moving, echoed by the constant sound of wind, the leaves on the ground and the smoke that rises to add to the atmosphere. Inside the signal box, it feels like a home from home for the Signal Man, with a fireplace, brick walls, books, a crucifix, and even a working clock, which he references as each train goes by. And of course, the main attraction the train track leading into the tunnel, which is cleverly enhanced with projection to add those spooky spirits. Not to spoil the fun but the stage crew’s ...

Wednesday 21st January 2026 "Aladdin" Westfield Folkhouse Pantomime Mansfield Palace Theatre Celebrating 86 years of pantomime Westfield Folkhouse Pantomime present a production that is bright fast-paced funny and full of heart. Rooted in traditional storytelling the show is delivered with confidence and a polished presentation. As a first-time reviewer of this production I was immediately struck by how successfully it brings entertainment to the audience keeping their attention from start to finish. The familiar story follows Aladdin a kind-hearted young man living a simple life with his mother Widow Twankey. When a mysterious stranger arrives promising wealth and adventure Aladdin is drawn into a dangerous quest for a magical lamp. Along the way he falls in love with Princess Jasmine angering the Empress and finding himself banished from the city. What follows is a lively adventure packed with comedy magic and music leading to a satisfying and uplifting conclusion. Amy Bri...