Cinderella

This was my first visit to the Frazer Theatre to see Knaresborough Players, and if this production is anything to go by, I really hope it’s not my last. Their production of Cinderella proves that you don’t need a big stage to produce a first class pantomime, just a big heart. It was quite clear that everybody on Stage was thoroughly enjoying themselves and that enthusiasm was highly infectious- the full house of cubs certainly enjoyed it.

The story of Cinderella needs no explanation and this traditional production was brought up to date with some very funny one-liners, many topical references and modern music and singing.

Tabitha Gibson, in the title role of Cinderella, was excellent in her naïve and sincere characterisation, with a delightful smile that never waned. She looked gorgeous in her ballgown. I have never seen Buttons played by a girl, but Ellie McLaren made it work, with assured comedic delivery and enough energy to power most of Knaresborough. Her handling of the audience was extremely professional. Baron and Baroness Hardup (Ian Hagues and Emilie Knight) were very well played and complemented one another in their parts; he, the down-trodden father of Cinders, and she, the wicked stepmother from Hell!. 
I don’t know whether it was scripted, or the decision of the Director, but I loved the Fairy Godmother, Lisa Ramsey, played as a Scouser. It worked so well and the accent was so good I was convinced she was Liverpudlian. Prince Charming (Julie  Wrightson) and Dandini (Heather Robinson) provided the love interest with Cinders and were very convincing in their portrayal. They both looked and behaved exactly as principal boys should.
t wasn’t long before we met the fab comedy duo of John Pearce and Dan Brown as ugly sisters Bella and Stella Hardup ; loud and funny, with the costumes and makeup to match. It’s always a challenge to get the Uglies right but these two certainly did – they had me in stitches throughout the show – two of the best I’ve seen.
Last, but by no means least, we had Jessica Ramsey, as Muffin the Cat – not a character I’ve ever come across in Cinderella before, especially one who sings in the song sheet! But her solitary  “Meow” got a laugh every time.
The principals were ably supported by a small but assured, and ever smiling, chorus and three delightful dancers.

Nigel Morgan has to be congratulated on his production and direction of movement on such a small stage. The Stage Manager, Geraldine Gordon, and her backstage team and technical crew were excellent at, not only the continuity between scenes, but also the actual set and cloths design and build. 

As with all good pantomimes when they reach their climax, everyone lived happily ever after…Cinderella did go to the ball, her prince finally found her and the entire audience went home with a smile on their face.

Thanks and congratulations to the whole Team – far too many to mention, for a wonderful night’s entertainment, and for the hospitality. I look forward to returning to Knaresborough in the future.
 

 

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