Cinderella

This was a very enjoyable production of a very funny script. There were jokes for the children in the
audience and some for the adults too, lots of local references and some great slapstick moments. All of it
was completely appropriate for the ages of the cast and that was the same for the costumes and music
choices as well.

The principals were confident and 100% committed to their roles. There were some strong singing voices
and they all coped with the audience interactions very well, encouraging more booing and hissing, singing
along, it’s behind you and poor Laura was blamed for everything! I was particularly impressed with the
antics of the Ugly Sisters in their heels. Well done both of you. It didn’t matter that some of the lines were
lost in one scene as the cast managed to get it together and carry on.

The simple but effective direction made use of all of the performing area of the stage and the floor in
traditional panto style. The comedy was an important aspect of the show and I didn’t stop laughing from
start to finish. At times however, the ensemble seemed stuck at the back so that could be an area to
consider. It was good to see everyone dancing and I enjoyed the different styles in the show. I found myself
agreeing with the choreographer’s plea for straight arms in act two but there was no questioning everyone’s
enthusiasm and enjoyment.

The cast had some lovely singing voices and I liked the choice of songs to support the story. Sometimes
there was an imbalance between the amplified soloists and the ensemble voices but not often.
Members of the society had designed and made the scenery which was effective; I was impressed with the
working clock. I also noticed that the pumpkin carriage had been made for a previous production but was
dusted off and glammed up. If it’s possible to put in a set of stairs in front of the curtain it would provide
more opportunities.

The costume team had also worked hard and managed to create some highlights including a colourful ball
scene. Cinderella’s transformation dress worked very well and her walk down dress was beautiful. I liked
the different colour palette for the Baroness and the outfits for the Uglies were horrendously wonderful.
As I got lost on my way to the hall, I only just arrived before curtain up but I had a very enjoyable evening. I
had a warm welcome, laughed a lot, had a cuppa in the interval, almost had sweets from the cast, and
watched a great youth pantomime. Well done KYDS, please invite me back!

Helen Wilson
Assistant Rep for District 8
NODA East

 

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