'I went to Coventry pantomime and it was a gloriously bonkers Christmas celebration'
Posted: Sun Dec 07, 2025 5:00 am
Iain Lauchlan sparkles with hilarious gags and joyful pandemonium in Sleeping Beauty at the Belgrade
As soon as the lights rise in Coventry, a world of ridiculous antics and heartwarming magic takes over the Belgrade. Sleeping Beauty hits the stage with big laughs and the gloriously silly, feel-good festive spirit that panto-goers look forward to every Christmas.
Writer Iain Lauchlan returns in full outrageous glory as Nanny Fanny McWheeze, spinning through a whirlwind of curly wigs, neon Doc Martens, and perfectly timed Scottish jokes. Classic Belgrade magic is in full effect, with twists and joyful chaos that keep everyone smiling.
Nanny Fanny was bang up to date with the Och Aye Machine, a TARDIS-like AI contraption whose Glaswegian glitches had the audience in hysterics. Combined with slosh-meets-curling antics, tech jokes, and cheeky Coventry nods, these quirky touches make the Belgrade show truly joyous.
Craig Hollingsworth is on top form as Muddles the Jester, bounding onstage fresh from JD Gyms, brimming with energy, mischief, and his beloved 'piggin.' Chaos ensued when he dragged a man named Carl onstage, who immediately fired off improvised jokes.
But Carl was just the beginning. During the 12 Days of Christmas, Muddles collided with the drape and sent both it and himself flying. Thanks to his comic timing, the mishap became one of the most memorable laughs of the evening.
Wendi Harriott is a deliciously wicked Carabosse with a voice so commanding you almost feel guilty for booing. Aonghas Ewen brings irresistible charm as Azurial, a magical and graceful presence whose dazzling wand flair lights up every corner of the stage.
Celebrating two decades at the Belgrade, Andy Hockley shines as Grumbleweed, the hilariously grumpy sidekick to Carabosse. With his pointy garden gnome hat and impeccable comic timing, he had the crowd roaring, especially as he cheekily sipped a drink while Muddles' drape disaster unfolded.
Mia King-Harmes deserves praise for masterfully pulling double duty as both the ill-fated Queen and Princess Belle. Her Queen is emotionally gripping in the early scenes, while her Belle is charmingly warm and endearing.
Emily Rayner charms effortlessly as Prince Valiant, delivering the long-awaited kiss that completes the fairytale ending. Arif Javid brings the fun as King Cuthbert, with bumbling charm, playful tricks, and a sprinkle of magical mischief!
All the traditional hallmarks are here and perfectly executed, from Bedworth and Nuneaton jibes and audience shout-outs to a hearty dose of groan-worthy jokes. But it is the fun that keeps the show flying.
With a script full of wit, clever twists, and playful humour, Lauchlan keeps audiences of all ages laughing. Whatever goes wrong, the performers' comic instincts effortlessly turn it into comedy gold.
What unfolds is a gloriously bonkers, full-throttle Christmas celebration that keeps the laughs coming. Audiences leave smiling long after the curtain falls, every moment witty, joyful, and utterly enchanting.
https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/whats-on/reviews/went-coventry-pantomime-its-gloriously-32929332
