Review of Treasure Island

Hello Little People

Port St Mary

Review by Vanessa Montgomery Williams

We were so glad to make the pilgrimage from Ramsey for Hello Little People’s Alternative Panto in Port St Mary. After enjoying Dick Whittington and the Manx Cat in 2023, we knew that with Treasure Island we were in for another lively, family‑friendly adventure – full of music, magic, and local jokes to keep the parents entertained too.

Hello Little People have been creating wonderful, inclusive events for some time now, and their Go Wild Festival at Milntown in the summer was spectacular (more please!). The alternative panto is a much more manageable outing for families whose children find the Gaiety’s offering too long, loud, or overwhelming. At just over an hour plus a short interval, it’s the perfect length. The Town Hall setting is informal, with cushions at the front, freedom to move around, and plenty of seats for cuddles with parents if needed.

With Treasure Island, they reimagined the classic tale with magical twists and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Alongside the familiar Jim Hawkins and Long John Silver were colourful new additions: Jim’s Mum, Maisie the magic mermaid, and Squawk the talking parrot. The subplot of a struggling ice cream shop felt timely given the current challenges in the hospitality industry, but was delivered with humour and joy. Children delighted in shouting the traditional “He’s behind you!” as the story unfolded.

Hello Little People once again succeeded in turning a well‑known tale into something vibrant, inclusive, and imaginative. Thanks to Michelle Jamieson and Chloe Shimmin – still can’t believe what they can pull off with just the two of them – and we can’t wait to see what they have planned for 2026.