In this Christmas Day pantomime spectacular, a pop superstar takes on the classic Arabian Nights hero.
Aladdin (Cliff Richard) is a poor boy living with his mother, Widow Twankey (Arthur Askey), and his brothers Wishee (Bruce Welch), Washee (Hank Marvin), Noshee (Brian Bennett) and Poshee (John Rostill). The wicked magician Abanazar (Alan Curtis) tricks Aladdin into helping him find a magic lamp. After becoming trapped, Aladdin discovers the lamp’s Genie (Katerina Holden) and uses its power to escape poverty, defeat his rival, and win the heart of the beautiful Princess (Vanessa Howard).
This lavish production was constructed as a major Christmas Day television event, built around the immense popularity of its star, Cliff Richard. The programme bridged two distinct eras of British light entertainment by pairing the pop idol with comedy veteran Arthur Askey, who delivers a classic performance as the pantomime dame. Richard’s backing group, The Shadows, were integrated directly into the story as Aladdin’s four brothers, providing both comic relief and a slate of original songs written specifically for the show. A vehicle for its star, the pantomime also served as the television debut for actress Vanessa Howard.
Broadcast: ITV – Rediffusion, 1 Episode, 25 December 1967
Written by: David Croft
Additional Material by: Dick Vosburgh
Music and Lyrics by: The Shadows
Musical Director: Norrie Paramor
Designer: Frank Nerini
Producer: Bill Hitchcock
Main Cast: Cliff Richard (Aladdin), Arthur Askey (Widow Twankey), Vanessa Howard (Princess), Alan Curtis (Abanazar), Katerina Holden (Genie), Bruce Welch (Wishee), Hank Marvin (Washee), Brian Bennett (Noshee), John Rostill (Poshee), Michael Henry (Grand Vizier), Julian Orchard (Emperor)
