Cinderella Review: A Sunny Pantomime Adventure on the Coast
Get ready for a sunny escape from the usual wintery Christmas cheer! This Cinderella review takes you to the vibrant seaside town of Crabbington Sands, where the panto comes alive with Joe Tracini's script and Aimee Leigh's lively choreography. Imagine a colorful cast dressed in pastel hues, with sisters Lou and Lav (played by the hilarious Owen Evans and Kenny Moore) straight out of a saucy postcard! Designer Kirsteen Wythe's costumes are a sight to behold, featuring beach ball dresses, bucket-and-spade hats, and fairground-ride frocks, all under the sun. But it's not just about the visuals; the story unfolds with Cinderella's longing for new adventures, beautifully captured in an opening rendition of Natasha Bedingfield's 'Unwritten'.
Georgia May Foote shines as Cinderella, bringing a big sister vibe to her interactions with the young audience and a special bond with her devoted love interest, Buttons (Tracini). However, her character lacks a certain spark, especially in her romance with the wannabe rock-star prince (Danny Hatchard). The panto keeps things traditional, with plenty of laughter and fun, including some hilariously bad jokes and a unique 'Shoe Must Go On' game show. Tracini steals the show with his acrobatic performance as an 'air friar', leaving the kids in awe.
The fairy godmother, played by Hannah-Jane Fox, adds a touch of whimsy with her pink hair and struggling magic. The script cleverly avoids the cringe-worthy adult slang that often plagues pantos, keeping the audience engaged. But it's Jeevan Braich's Dandini who deserves more spotlight time! With a rich voice from his Starlight Express days, Braich's big number after the interval is a highlight, adding heat to the production.
Despite a slightly underwhelming second half, the show leaves a lasting impression, leaving you with a smile and a memorable experience. Catch it at Norwich Theatre Royal until January 4th!
