Cinderella

There must be hundreds of versions of the pantomime favourite which is Cinderella.  This version had a rather different storyline with the script extremely heavy on COVID-19 references which it would actually have been nice to get away from.  That said the twenty-eight strong cast threw themselves into the show with energy and commitment.  The pace was good in the main.  It did dip once or twice but I know from NOMADS’ social media pages that You-Know-What had impacted on both rehearsals and the first four performances with stand-ins who, with only 24-hours notice, gamely kept things going; so for several of the cast the Tuesday performance was somewhat of a first night.

Set and stage cloths were first rate and well done DSM/Props Chloe Ferrier. Panto props are always a big challenge.  Lighting and sound were good but maybe re-think the length of the Fairy Godmother’s sound effect which went on too long and overpowered her initial dialogue each time.

I am in awe of Sarah Smith’s skill with costumes.  The colour themes were wonderful and the number of changes Sarah and her three-strong team dealt with not only for all the cast but every entrance of the Ugly Sisters was staggering.  I raise my hat to you ladies.

In the title role Olivia Savage was a very feisty Cinderella and much less downtrodden than usual.  Olivia has a good voice and managed her musical numbers really well.  Everybody’s favourite is always Buttons and despite carrying an injury Dee Young (even with a walking stick) certainly created a good rapport with the audience. Dee also has a great voice. Of course with Cinderella you have the bonus of two Dames instead of one each, naturally, vying for the limelight.  Steve Beach and Andy McGowan were Syrup and Figs and didn’t disappoint, flamboyantly making the most of every bit of stage time they had.  Good support came from Mia Quinn and Abbie Good who were a good pairing and worked well together as Prince Charmin and Velvette; Claire Tuttle (Nancy), Joanna Turvey and Lily Case (Fairy Godmother and Twinkle), Alex Schosland and Anita Marshall (King and Queen).

Musical Director Nicholas Sheehan did a superb job with the chorus work which produced some lovely harmonies. In fact all the Ensemble songs and dances were beautifully handled and Jodie Corbett deserves special congratulations for some lovely, creative choreography.  

Writer and Director April Murfet must be well pleased with her cast and production team.  The Principals all rose to the occasion and the Ensemble were second to none but, as April says in her programme note, the show would not be possible without all those who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

Thanks NOMADS for inviting me along and for your warm hospitality.

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