Richmond Theatre – until Sunday 4th January 2026
Reviewed by Carly
4****
This year Richmond brings you Cinderella the fairy godmother of all pantos! Written by Harry Michaels and Alan McHugh and directed by Gary Wilmot
It tells the classic story of Cinderella (Hope Dawe) A kind lovely girl who desperately wants to go to the Royal Ball and Buttons (Charlie Stemp) her loyal, best friend who is totally in love with her, but he just can’t get the words out to tell her, he would do anything for her and he manages to get her a ticket to the ball! When her wicked stepsisters Verruca Hardup (Stephen Guarino) and Hernia Hardup (Jak Allen-Andersom) find out they decide that they have other plans for Cinderella and must make her miss the ball so that they can have more of a chance of winning over Prince Charming (Tom Major). With everything now falling apart for Cinderella, in steps her magical Fairy Godmother (Helen George) providing her with everything she needs to go to the ball including those spectacular glass slippers. She meets the Prince Charming, love is in the air but she must leave by midnight before the magic disappears. She succeeds only to leave one slipper behind, will the Prince find the Princess that fits the shoe?
The show was magical to watch and definitely put everyone in the christmas spirit, Hope Dawe gave a spectacular performance that was so enjoyable to watch.
Tom Major as Prince Charming played the playful prince and was entertaining for all.
Basil Brush well what an entrance he had, the audience joining in with BOOM BOOM BOOM let me hear you say wayo
Charlie Stemp as Buttons was hilarious throughout the evening entertaining all and keeping a smile on everyone’s face.
Helen George as the Fairy Godmother was sparkling and beautiful and her vocals were fabulous she played her part with ease.
Then there was the Ugly Sisters, Stephen Guarino and Jak Allen-Andersom who were sarcastic and rude and always delivered in sync with a pout their saying “shut your faces” – just brilliant
This was a fantastic and enjoyable panto for all that got you into the christmas spirit definitely one to watch as a family. Get yourself to Richmond It’s well worth it!