Cinderella

Promenade Productions are well known for the quality of their pantomimes, and this year was no exception.  This particular script is well written and full of traditional panto fun, without moving away from the fairy-tale story that the audience wants to see.  The sets, supplied by Scenic & Property Hire, were colourful and bright.  The stage crew are to be congratulated on the speed and smooth transition from each scene.  We were treated to a lively and vibrant opening number, full of enthusiasm from the large company.  Their energy on this final performance demonstrated how much fun they were having, which was passed on to the audience.  The choreography was sharp and well rehearsed.  The discipline of the dancers of all ages is to be admired.  Well-done girls.  The costumes were delightful, rich and well fitting.  The Ugly Sister’s creations were imaginative to say the least.  The band only consisted of a keyboard and set of drums, but this was ample and we were able to hear the performers clearly without being drowned by a large orchestra.  This again proves that simple is often the best.  There was also a good choice of music. The whole company were well disciplined and animated…… and they smiled constantly!  It does make all the difference.  There were some very strong performances from the principals.  JACK OVERINGTON made a superb Buttons.  He connected with the audience and gained their support immediately.  I have watched this young man develop over the years and he goes from strength to strength, with his confidence growing as much as he is!  A delightful performance from HANNAH DAVIES, in the title role, was balanced beautifully by her Prince Charming, JODIE HEMMING.  This in turn was matched by a Dandini who was full of zest.  The ugly sisters worked well together, pulling all the comedy out of the piece.  Both suitably outrageous, they were entertaining to children and adults alike.  TESSA CHAMPION as Baroness Hermione Hardup was excellent.  She captured the essence of this character beautifully, and her makeup was wonderful.  Congratulations to everyone involved with this excellent piece of family entertainment.

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