Cinderella

Meryl had written and directed this traditional Panto and yet it had a modern feel with some quirky references to current culture that most of the audience would have recognised.  It was well written and directed, packed with comedy, a good choice of songs and with all the usual “it’s behind you” which the children (and the adults) love to get involved with. It’s such a delight to see and hear some of the little children in the audience really getting involved in theatre which they will remember for the rest of their lives.

Danielle Perkins in the title role was excellent with a beautiful voice, all the looks and a wonderful stage presence. She was made for this part!  Joseph Marsh as Buttons was absolutely perfect for this slapstick role in communicating with his audience and very reminiscent of the comedy and physicality of Norman Wisdom. The two Ugly Sisters, Kendall and Kylie were Callum Limer and Matt Bendall.  As Callum said this was their dream role having been such good friends since appearing in SODS Aladdin 10 years ago. Their humour worked brilliantly as they bounced off each other and their singing and dancing showed off their talents perfectly. The Prince (Lauren Bunce) and Dandini (Mark Littlewood ) worked well together.  Lauren also demonstrated  her singing ability beautifully with Cinders  in their many songs. Nyiesha Austin captured the character of the evil Baroness and was suitably “booed” and “hissed” as she excelled in the role. Major Domo (Jon Wray) & The Baron (Peter Hawkes) gave professionalism, comedy and energy to their roles.

In a novel twist Meryl had written into the script, 6 fairies  who were all being assessed  and eliminated as  ‘Apprentices’ under the strict eye of Fairy Sugar (Cassandra Fisher) who portrayed her role  powerfully and with just the right amount of comedy. The other characters and ensemble were all enthusiastic, energetic and really looked like they were enjoying being on stage and that added to our enjoyment. It is good to see so many of them that had grown up with SODS Youth Theatre and were now taking part in main productions alongside other family members and being given the opportunity in many cases to individually demonstrate their talents. Excellent direction by Meryl to encourage this.

Choreography  by Jo Jones was excellent, innovative and again all the cast looked like they thoroughly enjoyed themselves and were comfortable in what they were being asked to do.  Many of them were involved in the very effective ‘Zombie’  dance which Cassandra Fisher led. Lots had a very quick change afterwards but they all managed to achieve this. 

Sharon Preece as well as being Fairy 2 had also done a great job as Musical Director,   bringing out the best from all  the cast in their wonderful songs and singing.  She had also arranged a cappella song (not easy; respect!) Together with some great sound mixing from Andrew Love the levels were just right and it was so good to clearly hear all the dialogue and singing.

Costumes all fitted the cast perfectly from their matching suits in the hunt scene right down to the dress ‘Cinders’ was wearing and which was transformed into her ball gown. Excellent work by the ladies in making all the costumes.   Since the Regal Theatre has had it’s renovations it was now able to use some flyers for the backdrops which worked well to compliment the other scenery constructed and painted by the various teams. The lighting  also enhanced the set.

To conclude I have to mention the final song a remake on ‘The 12 days of Christmas’. It was one of the funniest and most energetic songs I have ever seen. Talk about organised chaos like you have never seen before! They must have all been exhausted at that! With  a total of 10 performances  they will all deserve a good rest after that.

Thank you for your hospitality and a big well done to Meryl and all the cast and crew on a wonderful evening’s entertainment.

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