Talegate’s annual panto returns with local laughs, polished performances and genuine heart.
Doric Dame Philip Napier is back at Aberdeen Arts Centre for his sixth year as Talegate’s panto dame, this time as Nurse Little Joan. The show transplants Robin Hood to Aberdonia, where Rabbie wants to rob from the rich, give to the poor, and win over Maid Marion whilst dodging the Sheriff of Aberdonia.
As a regular at the Arts Centre panto, the faces have become familiar over the years. But Talegate keep finding new ways to delivery an entertaining show. Each production brings a different energy, a fresh set of references, new songs that work their way into the format. It’s the same core company, but they’re not repeating themselves. Each year feels like its own thing.
The real test
My 12-year-old companion arrived with a steely determined to remain unimpressed. She’s at that age where enthusiasm for anything feels like a personal failing. By halfway through, she was laughing so hard she snorted. Multiple times.
That’s what Talegate does well. The songs lodge in your brain whether you want them to or not. The dancing is sharp enough that you notice the skill without it feeling showy. The audience participation works because the cast seem genuinely amused by the responses they’re getting, rather than going through the motions.
The local references feel like shared knowledge rather than performance. This isn’t generic Scottish panto with a few Aberdeen nods bolted on. It’s written for people who live here, performed by people who know exactly how to pitch those jokes.
The cast effortlessly make the crowd feel part of the show.
What makes it work
Napier anchors the whole thing. He’s comfortable enough in the role now that he can play with it, and the rest of the cast feed off that energy. Xander Gordon and Megan Wright handle Rabbie and Maid Marion without getting saccharine. Hannah Buyers leans into the Sheriff role. Corey Adam, new to the company as Will Scarlet, slots in smoothly. Sarah Ord returns as Hamitch the Henchman.
The young dancers from Danz Creations bring genuine skill to the chorus numbers. The choreography is more sophisticated than panto requires, which lifts the whole production.
Robin Hood runs 29th November to 24th December at Aberdeen Arts Centre. Tickets at aberdeenartscentre.com.
Talegate's sixth annual panto brings local laughs and polished performances.
