Cinderella

This was a new version of the popular family pantomime by Adrian Barradell and although the story line is generally well known, I was pleasantly surprised that the script in the opening scenes explained the plot and introduced the characters for any first timers.

Kerry Horne played ‘Cinderella’ with a smiling face that could light up any cold January evening and a perfect demeanour for the role. Forever hopeful of a romantic connection with Cinders, Alex Fitzgerald was an endearing and expressive ‘Buttons’ and actually needed no introduction given the large buttons on his tunic were a bit of a giveaway!

Of course Cinders is always being chastised by her overbearing step mother (‘Baroness Hardup’) and step- sisters (‘Hyacinth’ & Lowercinth’) and no loss of opportunity is taken by Kate Joels, Jacci Phillips and Ruth Hammond respectively, to take full advantage. Jacci and Ruth’s opening number ‘Sisters’ and later ‘It’s Raining Men’ were great fun!  Meanwhile ‘Baron Hardup’ the brow beaten husband to the Baroness was played with great strength by Chris Marsh.

Entering the scene came ‘Prince Charming’ and ‘Dandini’ played convincingly by Kathy Othen and Tracy Venables, who as the story dictates swop roles, to assist the Prince in his quest for romance. We also meet ‘Rough ‘and ‘Ready’ (Graham Clarke & David Vas) two rent collectors, who had some amusing scenes together playing money tricks on the Baron and with each other.

I must congratulate the youngsters amongst the cast; Sophie Williams, Lucy Joels-Peay, Erin Joels-Peay and Phoebe Horne who played their part well, together with the adult chorus. The scenery was effective, the costumes impressive and the two piece band provided just the right amount of support.

No panto is complete without the good fairy and the ‘Fairy Godmother’ was played with great charm and poise by Pauline Boyce.  ‘Major Domo’ was played with great stature by Tony Checketts and further comedic moments were added by Tina Dyble as ‘Madame Olga’ and Nick Brown as ‘Herald’. In fact, comedy was one of the strengths of this well written pantomime together with the community spirit that exists throughout ODS, all of which make for a great evening’s entertainment I really enjoyed.

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