Cinderella

When a society asks a first-time director to stage their own Pantomime that they have written it a big commitment with some risk, but CATS are very fortunate that their member had a real understanding of the traditions and business of the genre and was able to give it an exciting and fresh take on the traditional story. What is more in directing the show the member was able to bring the visualisation of their work to the stage with pace, comic timing and a wonderful Ensemble feel which featured many in the cast behind the principals.

Cinderella was reimagined in a modern monarchy where Charlie, the Prince and his mates Dan and Denny are Vloggers and then run that gag through the whole narrative as he meets Ella. But what really made the show work was the inclusion of classic pantomime comedy sketches, each given a refreshing reworking. The Lip sync routine was as good as you will see in professional panto, the “if I was not in pantomime” song was fun and freshened up, the classic ghost bench sketch was well executed and there was a good attempt at the slapstick beauty salon scene. What is more there was a good sprinkling of fresh sounding jokes as well as many of the classic panto gags. 

Another exciting feature of the show was that the leading roles were given to so many of the young cast which brought an energy and charm to the production, not just in the principals, but in minor roles like the wonderful running (or should that be trotting) gag with coconut shells for horses and the apprentice fairy. As always, the best pantomimes have plenty of interaction with the audience and as well as the usual boos and call outs, the ad-libbing by one of the Ugly sisters was superb, quick and witty. 

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