Cinderella

Published Thursday 20 December 2007 at 17:40 by Kevin Berry

This Cinderella actually turns on the Ugly Sisters. But only for a moment. Then they lock her in a wardrobe.

So not quite a revisionist pantomime at the Grand Opera House. The traditional story is adhered to and is played with freshness, joy and good humour. Tamara Wall, as Cinderella, opens the show in lively style, singing Dancing in the Streets on a stage filled with equally lively dancers.

Simon Grant as Buttons has the audience responding whenever he appears. He creates a lovely scene with Cinderella when, in the kitchen, he pretends to take her to the ball. The Ugly Sisters, Paul Critchlow and Michael Fordred, are an experienced pair and know how to work their parts for physical effect. Other Ugly Sisters who merely stand still could learn from them.

This pantomime’s name draw is Ian Smith, who plays Harold Bishop in Neighbours and there is obvious audience affection for him. He moves affably through the story, as Baron Hardup, joining in the comic routines and ensuring that all goes well. He must be a pleasure to work with.

The transformation scene is exquisite - utterly romantic ballet choreography, flowing dancers with white ribbons and Tamara Wall knowing that she is fulfilling every young girl’s dream.