Cinderella

This version of the well known story, written by Mark Hamilton, certainly hit the spot with the full house audience from the start being full of local references in both the dialogue and the song lyrics. The set was colourful but simple due to the small size of the stage and to allow space for the 22 members of the cast in the ensemble numbers. The costuming too was colourful and appropriate to the characters. Katherine Trill in the title role of Cinderella was delightful, interacting well with Sarah Spalding’s Prince Lachlan Charming of Ythanvale. Mark Hamilton made a lovable Buttons as along with his assistants, young Lip, Pip and Zip, he tried to shield Cinders from the machinations of her Stepmother and Stepsisters. Sue Harrison as the stepmother Agatha was evil personified and her daughters Fartae and Farfae, were the very definition of ugly in their personalities and features (special mention must be made of Sophie Barrett for their make-up and wigs). Trying to keep everything and everyone under control was Sheona King’s Dandini the Prince’s meticulous and pompous aide. His insistence that the Ball was an “extraaavaganza” was a running gag throughout. Ashley McGregor was a striking Fairy Godmother in her lilac gown, fairy wings and sparkly wand. George Acheson-Thom as Baron Hardup, the hapless victim of his domineering wife, engendered the full sympathy of the audience. The ensemble singing and movement in the chorus numbers was strong. I particularly liked the interaction with some of the youngsters in the audience by using them to manipulate the cue cards in the audience participation song “The Twelve Days of Christmas”. Well done everyone!

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