A Christmas pantomime spectacular from Yorkshire Television, built around a cast of veteran comedy stars.
The traditional pantomime story is given a comedy-centric treatment, with Aladdin (Bernie Winters) pitted against the wicked magician Abanazar (Mike Winters). With the help of the Genie of the Lamp (Jack Douglas), Aladdin must outwit his foe, avoid the Emperor’s (Josef Locke) guards, and win the affection of the Princess (Maggie Vickers). The essential role of the pantomime dame, Widow Twankey, is performed by Scottish entertainer Jimmy Logan.
This production was constructed primarily as a vehicle for the popular comedy double act Mike and Bernie Winters, with the unusual casting of the brothers as the story’s hero and villain. Writer-producer Bill Roberton filled the supporting cast with a formidable roster of variety and comedy talent, including Carry On regular Jack Douglas and Scottish star Jimmy Logan. The inclusion of celebrated Irish tenor Josef Locke as the Emperor brought an additional dimension of star power to the proceedings. The programme is also a notable early credit for director David Mallet, who would later achieve international fame as a director of music videos for artists such as Queen and David Bowie.
Broadcast: ITV – Yorkshire, 1 Episode, 25 December 1969
Written by: Bill Roberton
Producer: Bill Roberton
Director: David Mallet
Musical Director: Gareth Davies
Choreography: Malcolm Goddard
Main Cast: Bernie Winters (Aladdin), Mike Winters (Abanazar), Jack Douglas (Genie of the Lamp), Jimmy Logan (Widow Twankey), Josef Locke (Emperor), Peter Vernon (Vizier), Maggie Vickers (Princess)
