Bold claim: Sleeping Beauty at Cambridge Arts Theatre is a riot of energy that proves pantomime can be both classic and unapologetically exuberant. And this is the part most people miss: Matt Crosby isn’t just part of the show—he’s the pulse that drives it, turning Dame Nanny Nutkins into a scene-stealer who dominates every moment he’s on stage.
In Chris Jarvis’ fast-paced staging, tradition is kept firmly in the foreground, but Crosby’s larger-than-life performance injects a fresh, contagious fun that elevates the entire production. The evening crackles with lively chaos, sharp timing, and comic flourishes that land with satisfying precision. If you’ve ever wondered how a pantomime can feel both familiar and thrillingly new, this is a prime example.
The Arts Theatre Cambridge presents a version of Sleeping Beauty that respects the genre’s conventions—spectacle, audience interaction, and a wink-at-the-audience humor—while Crosby’s portrayal gives it a standout heartbeat. His comedic timing and fearless physicality create a buoyant energy that keeps the audience invested from curtain rise to final bow.
This show isn’t merely about traditional references or familiar tunes; it’s about delivering consistent, high-spirited entertainment with a performer who brings extra sparkle to every gag, reaction, and musical cue. For audiences seeking a classic panto experience that still feels fresh and vibrant, this production delivers on those expectations with flair.
In short, Sleeping Beauty at Cambridge Arts Theatre showcases a standout performance from Crosby and a brisk, joyous directorial approach that ensures the familiar ingredients of pantomime land with renewed impact. The result is a feel-good, crowd-pleasing night at the theatre that proves why this form endures—and why Crosby’s turn as Dame Nanny Nutkins is the highlight to remember.
What do you think makes a pantomime truly unforgettable: the jokes that land every time, or the moment a performer completely owns the stage? Share your thoughts and your favorite panto moments in the comments.
