A DAZZLING and thoroughly modern take on Sleeping Beauty is currently playing at Torquay’s Princess Theatre - and it’s an absolute triumph of festive family fun, writes Neil Edwards.

From the moment the curtain rose on the glistening, sugar-plum set, we knew we were in for a treat that was far more potent than any evil curse.

This year’s production smartly balances classic panto tradition with genuinely sharp contemporary humour. The stars of the show, without a doubt, are the magnificent returning duo of Nurse Nellie, played with perfect absurdity by the ever-brilliant Michael Neilson and equally superb Matthew Curnier as the flamboyant and zany Chester the Jester.

Wearing outrageous and colourful outfits, Michael’s interactions with the audience were seamless, landing every double entendre with a wink for the adults and a giggle for the kids whilst Matthew’s brand of anarchy through energetic sing-alongs and hilariously messy comedy was pure genius.

Providing the necessary villainy was the wickedly glamorous Caraboose, perfectly realised by Eastenders star Emma Barton, who managed to hiss, cackle, and steal every scene she was in. Her power-ballad entrance was spectacular, aided by some genuinely impressive dance choreography and pyrotechnics with a wonderful scene in the second half I won’t spoil. She was so good, it was the one time I was actually rooting for the villain!

Princess Aurora, played by Michael’s brilliantly talented daughter Lotti Brogan and Prince Valiant (Charlie McCullah) were charming and tuneful, delivering their romantic scenes with a knowing nod to the traditional story while still hitting impressive vocal harmonies. Their chemistry was sweet and genuinely believable.

Back in September, I interviewed Lucy McCluskey who plays Fairy Fortywinks as she arrived over from Ireland that same day, a little nervous about her first big panto role. Lucy played the part as well as any seasoned panto professional, hitting pitch perfect notes with that Fairy sweetness required along with her trumpet-playing skills.

If you like surprises, this show is full of them. I won’t divulge any secrets, but I will say that technically what this theatre has produced is nothing short of pure wizardry and marvel!

The pacing was snappy, the choreographed dance routines were slick, and the musical numbers - a fantastic mix of pop chart hits and beloved show tunes - had the entire auditorium on their feet, helped by the amazing amount of children in the audience from various schools and clubs who sang their hearts out - especially to the K-Pop hit ‘Golden’.

And Golden is a very apt word to use. Sleeping Beauty is a visual feast, a technical marvel, and, most importantly, a barrel of laughs. The creative team at Jordan Productions have once again proven that they understand the heart of pantomime: joy, slapstick, and a little bit of magic. It’s the perfect antidote to winter gloom and is essential viewing for anyone needing a good cheer.

Sleeping Beauty runs at the Princess Theatre until Saturday, January 3 - I do hope I get another chance to watch!