Ian Cheeseman finds laughter, nostalgia and standout comic brilliance in Bradford Alhambra’s joyful pantomime Snow White.
In an era when youth and social media can seem like the only things that matter, my recent visit to Bradford’s beautiful Alhambra Theatre felt genuinely life affirming. Their annual pantomime was everything I hoped it would be and more.
The star of the show was seventy four-year-old Billy Pearce, who was hilarious from beginning to end in this proper family pantomime. Sitting among an enthralled audience of all ages, I marvelled at his comic timing, quick wit and seemingly boundless enthusiasm.
This is the time of year when we watch reruns of Morecambe and Wise, It’s a Wonderful Life and other nostalgic gems. Standing in front of me was one of those remaining throwbacks to comic genius, a craft honed over decades and one that still shines. Watching Billy Pearce perform took me back to more innocent times, when life felt simpler, though there were plenty of modern gags and innuendoes for the mums and dads too.
He was far from the only top class performer in this polished pantomime. Myra Dubois, as the Evil Queen, was electric throughout, while 80s pop icon Sinitta added glamour and warmth in equal measure. She may be tired of singing So Macho, but it certainly did not show as she strutted her stuff.
Sarah Pearson and Callum Connolly were perfectly cast as Snow White and Prince William, and it was clear they were enjoying themselves just as much as the audience. The Magnificent Seven matched the standard set by the principals, singing together in perfect harmony, with their leader particularly hilarious during The Twelve Days of Christmas.
All around me were smiling, attentive faces, families off their phones and laughing together at this fast paced, old fashioned pantomime that never lost its sense of fun.
Ageism is a real issue in our ever changing society, and I can even see how it affects me as the years tick by. Billy Pearce, however, was a powerful reminder that age really is just a number. If, like me, you remember the 70s and 80s through rose tinted spectacles and sometimes wonder whether those days are gone for ever, or whether memory has softened the truth, you are wrong.
Snow White runs at the Bradford Alhambra until January 18. Go and see it. The talent on that stage is worth celebrating, because nostalgia will not last for ever. And yes, even I can manage the occasional pun.
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