Cinderella

This pantomime started somewhat unusually with a character, who we later found out to be the Fairy Godmother, having trouble with a vacuum cleaner (with some well-timed sound effects). This intriguing introduction continued with the entry of three ne’er do wells who introduced us to the story of Cinderella.

As we’ve come to expect from this group the back projection was very creative, and the story book ‘opening’ at this point was a lovely beginning to the main story.  Subsequent projected backdrops were imaginative and of an exceptionally high standard, incorporating moving graphics and sound which really enhanced (but never overwhelmed) the production. Apart from the back screen the set was very simple, with a table and blocks which were moved quickly and efficiently when required. Costumes, wigs and make up, particularly for the Ugly Sisters, were excellent.

There was a combination of taped and live music which worked very well. There was some lovely music played by the pianist during scene changes, and the click tracks worked well for the modern numbers. Songs were well performed; I particularly enjoyed Cinders’ song to her mother, Buttons’ ‘To Make You Feel My Llove’ at the end of Act 1, and the Ugly Sisters rendition of ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’

There were some good comic moments, e.g. the scene of the Ugly Sisters preparing to go clubbing was hilarious; the slapstick was well handled and the physical comedy had the audience in stitches. I’m not sure if Petunia’s fall off the stool was planned, but it was a very funny moment. This was an original script which contained many local and modern references that were real crowd pleasers. My impression was that the script had been very thoughtfully written. This group are good at including the younger performers and this production was no exception. The mice gave a lovely group performance with real characters emerging. Their transformation into horses was charming. The transformation scene was a good integration of back projection and action on stage, with the pumpkin turning into a coach on screen, then appearing on stage. The panto horse arriving from the back of the hall was a lovely surprise, as was the emergence of the policeman from it!

I like the way this group announces the characters for the bows. The finale number of ‘I Just Want to Dance With You Tonight’ was appropriately upbeat and so joyful that it made me wish there had been more big chorus numbers included in the show. I really enjoyed the unusual and moving ending, with the Prince and Cinderella’s duet as they watched the moon rise over the palace. There was a risk involved in deviating from the usual pantomime finale format, but it really came off, and rounded off a very memorable evening.

It is obvious that this group endeavour to push boundaries in order to create a unique and alternative ‘take’ on traditional pantomime, whilst retaining all that is good about village productions. Thank you for a very enjoyable evening’s entertainment.

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