Cinderella

Frome MTC (formerly Frome Amateur Operatic Society) have an excellent reputation for presenting high quality musical theatre, last years Dick Whittington was almost certainly the best pantomime I have seen and this years Alan Frayne scripted Cinderella comes a close second.

All the traditional pantomime elements were in place, and this is something to be very proud of as many pantomimes miss them out and replace with lots of solo pop tunes, extravagant dance routines and a story changed beyond recognition.

This was a ‘Cinderella’ to which you could take your granny and all your young children, safe in the knowledge there were no lewd scenes, nor double entendres, or scanty dressed girls. A good simple set which was changed easily with excellent cloths providing a very good back drop to the story. The props were good and the final scene to Act 1 was a stunning success, a beautiful white coach pulled by a lovely white pony, a beautiful Cinderella in a lovely gown, every inch a princess  ... it bought a real lump in my throat and a tear to my eye.  

A good script by the excellent Alan Frayne, demonstrated comedy at a level that most would understand, the music was up tempo, modern, easily fitting into the story and sung very well. The wonderful young ensemble and dancers were delightful and showed immense enthusiasm and talent. 

The very talented principal performers had a ball. Wonderful voices from Cinderella, Price Charming Fairy Godmother and Dandini ... they were all outstanding. The ugly sisters performed over the top, camp, funny and entertained everybody brilliantly. Buttons ... what a performer! He has so much talent and stage presence he is a name to watch out for! Baron and Baroness Hardup and Chambers supported everyone admirably.

The pace of the production never faltered, approximately an hour to each act, it was perfect for the young audience. They certainly went home wanting more ... which was just right.

This was a pantomime aimed accurately at its audience attending mainly matinees. It was geared to families who supported in their hundreds.  

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