Imagine Theatre are no stranger to offering spectacular entertainment for the whole family with a legacy of over 25 years. This year is no different with a fantastic offering of productions up and down the country, particularly when it comes to pantomimes. We particularly love it when there’s something aimed towards the audience, so imagine our excitement over Corby’s production of Sleeping Beauty. 

This production has the premise for a good pantomime; a great story to tell, some fantastic musical numbers to dance along to and some moments that will have you laughing out loud. This performance of Sleeping Beauty has something else infused into the mix too,: some hilarious drag. 

Joining Ru Paul’s Drag Race season one star Divina De Campo, fresh from her hit performances in the UK tour of Chicago, are drag legend Lola Lasagne, drag king and West End star Don One, Ste Johnston and Gracie Peters. 

Whilst this pantomime didn’t quite reach our expectations, the writing from JP McCue works well within the integration of drag artists. Lines are missed too frequently and having no chorus to beef up the musical numbers and scenes means that the stage often looks quite sparse. The stage at The Cube in Corby is incredibly versatile so there is more than they could have done with it for this production.

Divina De Campo and Ste Johnston carry a lot of the evening’s performance, with their chemistry immediately synced and their laughter infectious. De Campo is a natural superstar who nails it within her baddie role. She commands her audience almost immediately and you cannot take your eyes off her as she whips through her choreography and hits her unforgettable octave range. She is a really exciting talent to witness as she transitions into more stage productions now. Johnston is the same; brilliant with the audience and knows exactly how to command the stage. He has a formidable relationship with the audience which ensures that this panto doesn’t fall flat. 

The second half is definitely more engaging than the first, particularly the cast's rendition of ‘12 Days of Christmas’ which uses household items in a comical matter. The story definitely flows and has more of a buzz after this musical number. Drag Race fans will just love the fact that this show has incorporated lots of well-known references, whether that's to the show or the iconic characters that have been involved in the last 3 UK seasons. 

Whilst there is room for improvement, if you want something that’s easy, fun and not too strict on the pantomime traditions, then this will be right up your street. Great for a night out with your friends this festive season! 

*** Three stars

Reviewed by: Emmie Newitt

Sleeping Beauty plays at The Core at Corby Cube until 31 December 2021, with tickets available here.