Cinderella

Published Friday 30 November 2007 at 17:35 by Thom Dibdin

Johnny McKnight brings some inspired touches to his Cinderella for MacRobert with a storyline that is both imaginative and traditional.

The pantomime setting allows Fairy Godmother (Noreen Leighton)’s little helpers to take over her tasks while she doubles up as a brilliantly boo-able wicked stepmother. And a quintet of Dame School pupils are being groomed by the Uglies, McKnight and Rob Evans.

The traditional elements access a strong vein of audience participation. Strangely, given McKnight’s proficiency as a dame and Liz Carruthers’ otherwise determined direction, it is in this area that the script goes awry as the cast are not given the tools to tame over-enthusiasm. Even Gavin Wright, who has the makings of a truly great Buttons, can’t control key moments.

Claire Grehan is a spirited Cinderella while Gary Lamont is in great voice as a hunky Prince. Choreographer Karen Martin has brought out stellar performances in the dance routines from a cast who clearly relish the strong mix of original songs from musical director Alan Penman and well known sing-along hits. Alison Brown’s costumes look good, but there are disappointingly few of them for the Uglies.

A solid production that oozes local references and charm but needs a touch of finesse for true greatness.