Cinderella

Harlequin once again brought their annual panto to life with modern music, colourful settings, and some brilliantly danced routines. Choreographer Lorna Dennison succeeded in organising a very large ensemble and principals, all into one production with some original and impressive choreography. Not an easy job with a full cast, and yet they were all delivering it brilliantly. And all whilst singing so beautifully with energy and punch and delivering great characterisation both in the principal line up and the fuller ensemble. The energy and enjoyment from each member of the cast was evident throughout the show and infectious and the audience cheered them on.

The cast were all fantastic in their roles and they brought as much comedy out of their characters effortlessly, while handling the audience participation and interactions with ease. Kirsty Dougall as the title character, gave an assured and confident performance with a lovely singing voice. Cam Stewart did a smashing job of portraying Buttons, Cinderella’s sidekick, and managed to get the audience on his side from the very beginning. His antics encouraged enthusiastic participation from the audience, both young and old. Prince Charming and Dandini were very well matched in energy with Michael Cameron and Jayde Shenken respectively playing their roles and working well together. The ‘transformation’ of Danini into the Prince with the mustache was very funny. The two Ugly Sisters were brilliant. Rory Duncan as Sadie and Christopher Ralph as Senga were an absolute hoot. A great pairing with marvellous audience participation and line delivery. I loved their banter and the beauty treatment gag was priceless. Emily Preston was outstanding as the wicked stepmother Demonica, with excellent stage presence and characterisation. To complete the principal characters was Laura James as the Fairy Godmother, who excelled In her role and brought a lovely warmth and charm to the iconic role. Her entrance with the traitors cloak was a lovey comic touch and got a great reaction from the audience … “don’t worry I’m a faithful” … I was buckled!!   

This production was well executed and enjoyable and that was only possible because of every single cast member’s effort.  Well done again to the Committee, Production Team and wider Harlequin club and crew for another excellent Panto.

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