Review: Pinocchio at The Customs House
Pantos aren't just for Christmas and Pinocchio is bringing fun for all the family to The Customs House
Audiences are transported to Cooksonville for this magical pantomime, Pinocchio, directed by Steven Lee Hamilton.
True to the story we know and love, The Customs House’s Pinocchio follows his journey to become a real boy with favourite characters Jiminy Cricket, the Blue Fairy and Geppetto leading the way. Aiden Nord is no stranger to a Customs House panto and he plays a fabulous Pinocchio, really bringing the iconic character to life.
It wouldn’t be a panto without a Dame and Dame Winnie Wouldhave (played by the hilarious Tom Whalley, who also wrote the script for this production) has the audience in stitches throughout, alongside silly Dennis (Glen Richard Townsend).
Audience participation is key to the storytelling and we’re not afraid to boo the wicked Stromboli.
There’s plenty for adults to enjoy too as, in typical Tom Whalley style, the script is packed with innuendos and there are a few twists to the well-known tale.
The set and costumes are colourful and engaging for kids and the use of projection is a welcome addition. Music, magic and mayhem tell the story for all ages.
We leave South Shields with smiles on our faces looking forward to the next pantomime at The Customs House.
