Cinderella at Nottingham Theatre Royal is an absolute treat from the moment you walk into the glittering auditorium to the final confetti covered bow. It is everything a pantomime should be, big, bold, funny and full of heart, with a cast who look like they are having as much fun as the audience.
Heading the show is Craig Revel Horwood as the Wicked Stepmother, strutting about in outrageously fabulous costumes and razor sharp heels. He is gloriously nasty, but with so much charm and wit that you cannot help but enjoy every withering put down and perfectly timed one liner. His musical numbers are slick, full of attitude and choreographed within an inch of their life, which is exactly what you want.
There is warmth and magic in every corner of the stage. Abigail Morris makes a lovely, genuinely likeable Cinderella, with a sweet clear singing voice and a sincerity that keeps the story grounded. As Buttons, Neil Hurst is the beating heart of the show, silly, quick with the ad libs and completely at ease chatting with the kids in the audience but never overdoing it. Christina Bianco as the Fairy Godmother adds real vocal fireworks and a touch of sparkle every time she appears, and the royal double act of Stephenson Ardern Sodje as Prince Charming and Daniel Norford as Dandini brings easy charm and plenty of playful humour. The Wicked Sisters, played with relish by Britt Lenting and May Tether, are gloriously over the top, loud, brash and boo worthy, but always very very funny.
Visually, the production is a joy. The sets are bright and detailed without ever feeling cluttered, and the costumes are a constant parade of colour and glitter. The transformation scene and the appearance of the carriage genuinely feel magical, winning gasps from younger audience members. The ensemble and children’s chorus throw themselves into the big dance routines with infectious energy, keeping the pace brisk and the stage constantly alive.
What really stands out is the balance the show strikes. There are plenty of local jokes and knowing nods for the grown ups, but nothing that flies so far over children’s heads that they feel left out. The slapstick is silly without being mean spirited, and the classic panto audience participation is handled with warmth and good humour. It feels like a true family outing where everyone, from excited kids to slightly weary adults, gets something to enjoy.
In short, Cinderella at Theatre Royal is a sparkling and feel good night out that sends you back into the cold with a grin on your face and a few catchphrases stuck in your head. If you are looking for a Christmas show that delivers proper panto magic with a generous side of laughter, this one more than earns its place at the ball.
