CINDERELLA

A lively overture from the musicians under their director, Tim Harding, set the Civic Night performance off to a fine start. Noda District 7 Rep Alf Rai, was in charge of the direction - quite a change from seeing him on stage - but his experience in the field of performing certainly showed through in his direction.

A bright start quickly following by the appearance of Fairy Godmother, Kate Pingree Webber. She was bold, articulate and with a great sense of fun.  This panto had all the usual characters, Cinderella (Lexie Bennett) very pretty face and a clear, tuneful singing voice, Buttons (Marcus Perry) enjoying the role and getting a good response from the audience. Dandini (David Ball) and The Prince (Elicia Farmer) were a good double act and made the most of their appearances together. The Baron (Ben Perry) was well matched with the objectionable Baroness (Rachel Evans). She convinced the audience to hate her and boo everytime she appeared. The Ugly Sisters (Dom Napier) and (Paul Bowman) bounced their lines around and their timing was spot on. Paul is usually seen in the role of pantomime Dame and it was good to see him playing in a partnership.  Dom could be a rival for the Dame in the future and I can assure you that in red tights Dom certainly has the best legs I have every seen!!!!

The transformation of Cinders to the princess was one of the slickest I have seen and the golden coach was really all one could wish for a fairy tale coach. Lovely children playing the mice etc. I commend the team for producing this coach for such a small time at the end of Act 1. It was well worth the effort.

A thoroughly enjoyable evening was had by all. The hospitality for the Civic guests was very welcoming and I look forward to Harlequin's next offering in 2017.

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