Aladdin, Ayr Gaiety Review
Written by Kerry for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
“Aladdie” at the Gaiety, in Ayr, tells the story of Aladdie, his sister Alassie and their mother, Widow Twankey, who has become quite the entrepreneur, owning multiple businesses in Old New Cummock Town. After being trapped in a cave by the evil Abanazar, Aladdie’s relationship with the Princess Destiny flourishes, much to her mother, the Empress’ dismay.
The show, whilst set in a fictional ancient Ayrshire, contains a large Chinese influence which feels very out of place, especially when compared to the more simplistic and Scottish-inspired costumes. It’s unclear if it was an intentional choice, but Aladdie and Destiny’s costumes use the same colours but switched around, showing from the get-go their compatibility.
Many of the music choices didn’t fully work, especially some within the two medley numbers. Luckily though, this didn’t affect the quality of singing from the cast, the second act duet between the Princess and Empress being a standout, feeling more West End than West Scotland. But the clear stars of the show, without a doubt, was Ciara Flynn’s Alassie and Hannah Howie’s Empress, both punching well above their weight on comedic value, pulling in most of the night’s laughs. That, along with a dance and video I won’t expose as it’s a very you need to see it in the moment sort of thing. There’s also the “goes-wrong” style moments between Abanazar and the backstage crew when it comes to props that made me chuckle.
Technically, there seem to be a few issues with the show; the lighting choices didn’t seem to really have any rhyme or rhythm to them. Whilst sound design differed throughout the show, made more noticeable by the music feeling muffled compared to that of the singing. I will commend them, though, for thinking quickly when the Empress’ mic stopped working in the last thirty minutes of the show.
The Gaiety’s “Aladdie” is a fun time for all ages but lacks the charm that is often experienced at the theatre this time of year.
Plays until 4 January 2026
★ ★ ★
