Theatre Royal Windsor – until 10 January 2020
Reviewed By Carly Burlinge
5*****
Directed and staged by Carole Todd and written by Steven Blakeley, Cinderella (Alice Fillary) plays a honest delightful character that is always putting others first, sees the best in everybody and plays the part as happy, cheerful and very chatty. She also had a wonderful voice and strong vocals that entertained the audience throughout. Her ugly step sister Lavitia (Steven Blakely) is the complete opposite, can be rather nasty, spoilt and selfish making her do all the chores in the house and constantly putting her down. She is very extravagant with her very colourful outfits and some amazing head pieces throughout the show (I swear they got bigger every time!) “If you’ve got it flaunt it” is her motto! She has some great dance moves and some cracking one liners, good and bad, that had both the children and adults laughing and wanting more. Their Father, Basil The Baron Hardup (Basil Brush) was a delight to watch with his famous BOOM BOOM after every joke and terrific guitar playing, as well as other entertaining parts throughout, putting a smile on all faces.
Then there is Cinderella’s best friend Buttons (Kevin Cruise) who is deeply in love with Cinderella and would do anything to help her out. He plays a very bright, energetic and happy character with many humorous moments. Giving the audience great enjoyment whilst encouraging audience participation, which he definitely received throughout, having the whole audience clapping and stamping their feet.
Prince Charming (Dominic Sibanda) and his Loyal Sidekick Dandini (Joe Thompson-Oubari) Made a great duo together. The prince was very suave and sophisticated as well as charming and had a very strong singing voice. Between them and their dances moves they were both very enjoyable to watch. Then last, but by no means least, is Fairy Twinkle Toes (Debbie McGee) who helps Cinderella in her time of need, watches over her making sure that her kindness is received back. She plays a happy vibrant fairy with beautiful wings with lots of glam and glitter and a flashing magical wand. The question is which sister will end up with their Prince Charming?
Cinderella is definitely an audience-pleaser. A truly great and brilliant must see panto with something to offer for everyone.
You could see that everyone had a great connection on stage alongside some fantastic backdrops and props to set the scene, with great lighting to enhance it along with some fabulous costumes full of brightness and glitter. All really getting you into the Christmas spirit and certainly leaving you with a big smile on your face!
Cinderella is well worth seeing and not to be missed.