The Stage

Cinderella - The Musical Pantomime

Published Wednesday 10 December 2008 at 17:10 by John Hannam

In the programme notes, the first 21 years of Mayflower Christmas shows are celebrated. As entertaining as this one is, it trails in the wake of many of its predecessors. Even the title could be a little confusing.

It is, basically, a return to traditional pantomime with the songs, including several huge hits, snugly fitting into the storyline.

The superb opening routine creates great excitement and is climaxed by the roars of approval for the arrival of Christopher Biggins. It’s an intriguing production with slick high tech moments, panto gags that date back years and clever topical material and local references.

There is, as expected, so much to enjoy and Biggins, as Buttons, gets away with the part and gives it a new dimension and so much warmth. His input is such an important part of the show’s success and, at times, he sends himself up beautifully.

Matthew Kelly (May) and Matthew Rixon (Flower), who really keep it in the family, are such formidable ugly sisters and they are on sizzling form throughout. Their entrances are eagerly anticipated and the comedy is superbly timed and effective.

The initial meeting of the Prince (Craig McLachlan) and Cinderella (Rachel Stanley) is a major disappointment. It’s hard to imagine why McLachlan is directed to play his character in such an irritating way. What a waste of his talents - the whole ambience of his role suffers. Stefanie Powers as the Fairy Godmother is completely at home in panto and proves more of an all-rounder than Hart To Hart fans might imagine.

Yet there were some complaints overheard on the way out that the show is rather too long, particularly the first half.