Review – Sleeping Beauty – Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells.

The pantomime Sleeping Beauty at The Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, is a sparkling festive triumph that perfectly balances tradition, spectacle, and contemporary fun, delivering an evening of pure theatrical joy for audiences of all ages.

From the moment the curtain rises, the production envelops the theatre in colour, music, and infectious energy. The Assembly Hall proves itself once again to be an ideal home for pantomime, its intimate yet impressive space allowing every joke, dance routine, and moment of magic to land with precision. The set design is lavish and imaginative, seamlessly transforming the stage from royal palace to enchanted woodland, while the lighting and special effects add a genuine sense of wonder without overwhelming the storytelling.

At the heart of the production is Lee Mead, who brings charm, confidence, and his irresistible charisma to the role of Prince Vince. His performance anchors the show beautifully, combining traditional pantomime heroics with a modern, self-aware warmth that immediately wins over the audience. Mead’s natural stage presence and strong rapport with both cast and crowd elevate the role beyond a standard fairy-tale prince, making Prince Vince not just admirable, but genuinely endearing.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, each performer clearly relishing their role and contributing to the show’s infectious momentum. The comic characters, Stewart McCheyne as Mervin the Magician and James Peake as Nurse Nancy Nightly, deliver laugh-out-loud moments with great skill, keeping the humour family-friendly while also sneaking in clever references that adults will appreciate.

The villains of the piece are Carobosse (Louise Liluna Browning) and Norman (Zac Hanlon), who bring delicious theatrical menace to the production, striking the perfect balance between playful wickedness and pantomime extravagance, while Fairy Lights (Mina Anwar) provides warmth and heart, and keeps the story moving along amidst the orchestrated chaos.

Music and choreography are major highlights of this production. The song choices are upbeat and crowd-pleasing, encouraging clapping, singing, and enthusiastic participation. Dance routines are slick, energetic, and visually exciting, performed with precision and enthusiasm by a cast that clearly works exceptionally well as an ensemble. These sequences inject the show with pace and vibrancy, ensuring there is never a dull moment.

What truly sets this Sleeping Beauty apart is its sense of inclusivity and sheer fun. Audience interaction is handled with warmth and good humour, making everyone feel part of the story without ever becoming uncomfortable or forced. Children are fully engaged by the colourful characters and magical elements, while adults are rewarded with sharp comedic touches and clever staging choices that show real care and thought in the production’s direction.

It is clear that this pantomime has been crafted with genuine affection for the genre, respecting its traditions while embracing a fresh, contemporary energy. In every sense, Sleeping Beauty at The Assembly Hall Theatre is a festive treat. With strong performances, impressive production values, and a joyful spirit that never falters, it offers exactly what a great pantomime should: escapism, laughter, and a sense of magic that lingers long after the final curtain falls.

A glittering, feel-good pantomime packed with heart, humour, and festive magic.

*****     Five Stars