We round up the reviews for the theatre’s 2024/2025 pantomime…
Time Out: *** “And yet with all that accepted it’s a spirited attempt, performed with a gale-force enthusiasm, blessed by stunning neon streaked sets and design by Stewart J Charlesworth. If it feels awkwardly stuck between ‘actual panto’ and ‘stage version of Pinocchio’ then there’s fun to be had with its overambitious eccentricity.”
London Theatre 1: **** “Stratford East’s Pinocchio is an excellent seasonal family outing and one of the more appropriate full-length pantos for younger children. Even if a few elements feel a little disparate, Pinocchio is a jolly outing for the holidays.”
WhatsOnStage: *** “Although the show sometimes can wear its morals too heavily, there are plenty of moments of tongue-in-cheek humour and silliness, and it’s an enchanting evening. Particularly for fans of the story, young and old, this is a Pinocchio ready for its contemporary audience.”
The Guardian: *** “Collymore’s Pinocchio is a mischievous charmer who busts some good moves and sings his heart out. The rest of the cast are as spirited. While it may not grip the adults as much as the children, it exudes festive warmth.”
All That Dazzles: **** “Excellently realised and perfectly performed, Stratford East’s Pinocchio is a highlight of the festive season thus far, and one that it would be a shame to miss. Gorgeous to look out, delightful to listen to, and sending everyone – no matter their age – home with plenty to think about, and with important lessons learned, pantomimes rarely come better than this glorious, utterly heartfelt offering.”
Theatre & Tonic: **** “Although it doesn’t give the older audience members many adult jokes, it’s a good children’s show and quite easy to follow for the younger kids in the family. I don’t know that adult groups will like this show on their own, but if you are bringing kids along its sure to be a good time for the whole party!”
The Stage: **** “Upbeat song and dance-led pantomime with strong message and performances.”
The Reviews Hub: **** “The cast works hard to entertain us through song, dance, storytelling, and interaction. The desperate shouts that try to warn Pinocchio when he runs into danger show how engaged the audience is in the puppet’s quest to become a real boy. With spectacular design and energetic choreography, this is a crowd-pleasing traditional pantomime.”
The Spy in the Stalls: **** “Still, the dance numbers landed, the storytelling was upbeat, and everyone left the theatre cheerfully singing a refrain about believing in themselves. Job done.”
Fairy Powered Productions: **** “While this show doesn’t feature quite as many jokes for the grown-ups in the audience that are typical for panto, it makes up for this with beautiful vocals and fun dances. I especially enjoyed the various duets sung by Dylan Collymore and Tok Morakinyo, as their voices are simply incredible. Not to mention the many dance scenes featuring the whole cast, which are almost hypnotic.”
British Theatre Guide: “The script keeps the storyline clear and simple. This is a kids’ panto without double entendres and political references aimed at adults. There’s no ”It’s behind You!” either but still plenty of opportunity for audience involvement, while composer and lyricist Robert Hyman packs it out with lively songs that range across genres from rap to soul and disco that spark Claudimar Neto’s energetic choreography.”
Adventures in Theatreland: *** “The musical numbers help propel the story telling, providing plenty of opportunities for the audience to sing and dance along and providing much mirth to pantomime lovers. Whilst not entirely memorable, the songs are wonderfully enjoyable.”
Pinocchio continues to play at the Stratford East until the 4th January 2025.