FLYING carpets, magical genies, puffs of smoke and more than a little audience participation.

Kids will love this performance of Aladdin, which is full of surprises, dazzling costumes and plenty of well-known singalongs.

All the old favourites are on top form - the evil Abanazar, the bizarre Widow Twanky and of course Wishee Washee, played excellently by Duncan Norvelle.

Due to illness, Jeremy Spake from TV's Airport did not appear as The Emperor and will be replaced for the rest of the show's run by Johnny Leeze - who performs extremely well, dressed in one of the most dazzling costumes of the performance.

There are some very funny moments, particularly during Wishee Washee's on-stage interview of some of the children. Tears were running down the faces of many in the audience - though equally, that could have been down to the repeated drenching from the on-stage water pistols.

The dancers, members of the Justine Kavanagh Dancers and the Forum Theatre School of Performing Arts, were excellent and added colour, fun and great movement to the show.

One of the most memorable moments must have been the fluorescent flying carpet routine, complete with huge green snakes, birds and many special effects. And the unexpected rapping of the Genie of the Lamp, Adrian Russell, went down well with children and parents alike. A very entertaining show.

* Runs until January 11, 2004. Box Office: (01642) 552663

Published: 12/12/2003