Blackpool Grand – until 26 September 2026
Reviewed by Annabel Southern
4****
Bollywood comes to Blackpool in Rifco Theatre’s Surinderella, a vibrant and joyful South Asian reimagining of the traditional Cinderella story.
From the moment the Devi Godmother bursts onto the stage with glamour, sparkle and plenty of personality, it is clear that this is a pantomime ready to involve its audience. The show quickly gets everyone joining in, creating a lively atmosphere that continues throughout the performance.
At the centre of the story is Surinderella herself, a charming and confident heroine who impresses with both her strong vocals and excellent comic timing. Her friendship with the traditional pantomime cow provides some of the show’s funniest moments, with their scenes bringing plenty of warmth and silliness. Importantly, this is a Cinderella who isn’t waiting for a prince to rescue her. Instead, she is looking for someone who will join her on her adventures, giving the familiar story a welcome modern twist.
The larger-than-life Wicked Stepsisters, Lovely and Bubbly, embrace everything we love about pantomime dames. Gloriously nasty, outrageously camp and dressed in wonderfully over-the-top costumes, they bring plenty of laughs whenever they appear. Their big musical number is a particular highlight and had the audience thoroughly entertained.
The whole cast throw themselves into the production, singing and dancing with infectious energy. The Bollywood-inspired music, colourful costumes and vibrant choreography bring a real sense of celebration to the stage and provide a welcome burst of colour and escapism on a dreary autumn night in Blackpool.
There is something here for both children and adults, with plenty of audience participation, comedy, music and traditional pantomime fun, while the South Asian influences give the familiar story its own distinctive identity.
Surinderella is a colourful, energetic and entertaining family pantomime that delivers plenty of laughs, catchy music and feel-good fun. A great choice for a festive theatre trip and a welcome splash of Bollywood sparkle for Blackpool.