The glittering press night for the London Palladium's Sleeping Beauty pantomime was supported by a host of celebrities on Monday, despite the production being branded a 'smutfest' by furious audience members who have walked out of performances.
Stars Shine Amidst Audience Backlash
Fresh from the I'm A Celebrity jungle, Shona McGarty cut a stylish figure in a black mini skirt and cropped blazer, while Claire Sweeney showcased her curves in a festive red velvet jumpsuit. They were joined by Denise Van Outen, Beverley Knight, Claire Balding, and former Girls Aloud star Kimberley Walsh, who all turned out for the glitzy event.
This show of star power comes in stark contrast to the experience of many paying customers. The production, which stars Catherine Tate, Julian Clary, and Nigel Havers and opened on December 11, has been widely panned. Some theatre-goers have complained they left early after paying up to £220 for tickets, disappointed by the show's content.
Parental Warning Issued After Complaints
In a significant move, the London Palladium has now added a disclaimer to its website in response to the criticism. It states clearly: 'Parental discretion is advised due to innuendo.' This marks a notable shift for a show with family-friendly afternoon and evening performance times of 2.30pm and 7.30pm.
The opening night, which marked a decade since the famous venue first staged a festive pantomime, reportedly received 'no standing ovation'. Short-changed fans have taken to platforms like TripAdvisor to voice their dismay, with many highlighting a lack of traditional panto charm.
Audience Reviews Paint a Grim Picture
Disappointed visitors have been scathing in their online assessments. One stated the show had 'so little story, talent and innuendo', while another lamented, 'I was ashamed that I had taken my young children.' A recurring complaint criticised the production as a 'grim, lazy tirade of innuendos' that felt more like an adult variety show than a family pantomime.
Some long-term fans expressed particular sadness, with one noting it had been a nine-year tradition for their family, but they were now unsure about returning. Another criticised the apparent attitude of the production, suggesting it relied on the idea that 'the audience will be drunk', which they found 'tedious and rather insulting' to those who save up for the experience.
Despite the backlash, not all reviews were negative. Some attendees praised the theatre and staff, calling the show 'absolutely brilliant'. Sleeping Beauty, with tickets ranging from £35 to £220, continues its run at the London Palladium until January 11.
