Cinderella

What a great way to spend a morning leading up to Christmas! Greeted with a warm welcome from the Front of House team we were treated to a new venture for Runway Theatre.  Taking their panto into The Wynd Paisley, it brought great joy and happiness to their audiences.  The experience in the venue was different and we were treated to a performance that almost felt immersive with a thrust type of stage extending into the playing area with the audience on three sides. It took no time for the audience to become involved in the pantomime.  With excellent vocals from the main characters and the ensemble, we were entertained by a range of great music from traditional pantomime songs to modern musical theatre songs and not forgetting the traditional sing-along.  The revised script by Neal MacCowan was funny and current. The set was simple and effective, and it was great to see all corners of the stage, auditorium and balcony used in the storytelling of Cinderella.  There was a very strong principal cast, and along with an equally strong supporting ensemble and dancers this pantomime moved along with great ease.  While the venue was not a traditional theatre, it felt that the audience were more involved right from the start. Despite the challenges working in a venue that is not designed for a traditional theatrical production the use of the available space was well thought out and creative.  The band positioned on either side of the playing area were well balanced and the sound and lighting worked well for this production. There were a number of impressive costumes, and Barbara played by Jon Cuthbertson and Beatrice played by Graeme Mackay never tired of modelling their fantastic creations.  With a few specially designed excellent costumes, the Fairy Godmother, played by Catherine McKenzie wore a magical lilac dress and accessories designed by Challum Brown. Helena the wicked stepmother, played by Pamela Ross was in contrasting black attire designed by Iain Condie.   The stage crew ensured this production ran smoothly from behind the scenes. The production team of Greg Robertson Director, David Dunlop, Musical Director, and Nicola Fry Choreographer as always created a show with high performance values.  Well done! 

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