Aladdin | Sheffield Lyceum

A lamp, a magic carpet and… Kevin Clifton? Yes the Sheffield Lyceum really has it all this year. Paul Hendy has written and directed this year's show as we follow young, poor Aladdin who lives with his mother Dame Dolly and Brother Charlie. He dreams of marrying Princess Jasmine, but no one believes it could happen. Ivan Tochacha tricks Aladdin into finding a magic lamp in the cave of jewels and traps him inside. Aladdin finds a genie and wishes to become a prince so he can ask Jasmine for her hand. Trouble ensues with Ivan, but Aladdin is able to stop him and save the day. 

Morgan Brind, Michelle Morden and Start Relph's set includes lavish, elaborate set pieces filled with bright colours and flashy sparkles. They take the audience from streets to caves and into the skies. Brind and Amy Chamberlain's costumes are full of sequins, shine and shimmery beadwork which are beautifully made. Aladdin is adorned in simple ragged clothes, yet they still have a touch of elegance and charm, along with the classic panto feel. 

James Harrison is the Musical Director and on keys. Harrison is a hilarious addition to the production, mic’d up and ready to be a character of his own. With witty banter back and forth with Kevin Clifton, he has everyone laughing. 

Sario Solomon takes on the role of Aladdin, the poor lovable young man who is madly in love with Princess Jasmine. His endearing nature contributes well to the character, radiating energy and warmth, Solomon has the audience rooting for him the minute he steps on stage. He has an extremely unique voice which lends wonderfully to any of the songs chosen for this production. Solomon solidifies himself an astounding all round performer who is perfectly suited for the heroic lead.  

Clifton is Ivan Tochacha, yes let that sink in. Ivan Tochacha… I want to Cha Cha. That’s only one of so many strictly jokes that this pantomime holds. Clifton is a charming villain and the audience eats it up, with his suave demeanour and killer dance moves. Damian Williams is Dame Dolly, taking on a lot of the comedy in the show. Finding one audience member to constantly pick on during the show had everyone laughing.

Jasmine is played by Lauren Chia, a stunning vocalist who radiates Jasmine’s strong, powerful energy. She uses her stage time capturing the hearts of the audience, making sure everyone is rooting for her and Aladdin.  CBeebies star Evie Pickerill is the Spirit of the Ring. She helps drive to story and protect Aladdin, providing him with a magic carpet to help him save the day. Pickerill has a lovely voice which blends well with everyone in the cast. 

By far the highlight of the show is Aladdin’s magic carpet ride. Flying above the first couple rows of audience members, Solomon sings a rendition of Defying Gravity from Wicked, an incredible moment that really was magical, it had the whole audience gasping in awe. 

Aladdin at the Sheffield Lyceum is a spectacle of a pantomime, full of slapstick comedy, magic carpet rides and a laugh a minute. 

Aladdin plays at the Sheffield Lyceum until 04th January 2026.

Tickets and More Information

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Pamela Raith