Cinderella

This youth company presented a vibrant and entertaining pantomime of Cinderella, full of energy, colour, and a strong sense of fun. The show was undoubtedly in safe hands with veteran director Becky Smith at the helm, music by Mark A. J. Checkley and a script by Peter Crussell. With a cast aged from 7 upwards, the production was a credit to both the young performers and the production team, who clearly worked hard to create a supportive environment in which the children could thrive.

Georgia Dewsbury gave a warm and engaging performance as Cinderella, portraying the character with sincerity and confidence that allowed the audience to invest in her journey. Prince Charming, played by Jessica Smith, was well matched, and together they formed a convincing and likeable partnership. Eve Morris was one of the standout performances for this reviewer, bringing energy and confidence to the role of Dandini. Chloe Hind was also excellent as Buttons and should be particularly commended for managing the audience engagement parts of her role so assuredly – a feat many seasoned performers do not always achieve.

The comedy elements were delivered with enthusiasm and good awareness of pantomime style. Rosalie Russell and Emma Dewsbury clearly enjoyed their roles as Baron and Baroness Hardup, creating strong characters and encouraging audience engagement. Emma, in particular, was a deliciously charming villain and handled the booing of the audience with aplomb. Charlie Lake and Macey Arnold were an entertaining pairing as the Ugly Sisters, Salmonella and Listeria, demonstrating good comic timing and a clear understanding of the humour required in pantomime.

Annabelle Hanwell and Beau Martin provided solid support as the King and Queen. Bryony Lenton handled the role of Major Domo well, supported effectively by Noah Weavers, Poppie Duffield, and Molly Wreathall as Gordon 1, Nigel, and Kevin. This quartet had the audience cackling with their performances as the put upon captain and his hapless guards. All four should be incredibly proud of their performances.

The Fairy Godmother, played by Violet Jefferys, was a calm and engaging presence, helping to guide the story clearly for the audience. Frida White, Ayannah Peters, Alex Fickling, Louisa Dewsbury, and Esther Lodziak all played their supporting roles with commitment and confidence, adding depth and variety to the production. The ensemble, including Rhumi Sirisena, Annelie Russell, Sidney Hawkes, Macey Hawkes, Evan Weavers, Esme Hind, Tillie Martin, and Alice Wreathall, worked extremely well together. Their enthusiasm and teamwork were evident throughout, particularly in the group musical numbers, which were lively and well-rehearsed.

Vocal work across the cast was strong, with clear diction and good projection, especially impressive given the young age of many performers. Choreography was well suited to the abilities of the cast and was performed with energy and commitment. As the performers gain experience, sharper timing and stronger finishing positions will further enhance these numbers. Costumes were colourful and well chosen, adding to the fairy-tale atmosphere, and the staging supported the action effectively.

Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable youth pantomime that showcased the confidence, enthusiasm, and developing skills of a very young cast. The company should be congratulated on nurturing a clear love of theatre and performance, and with continued encouragement, these young performers have a very bright future ahead.

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