Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge – until 5th January 2025
Reviewed by Steph Lott
5*****
Oh yes it is! The magical season of pantomime has returned to Cambridge Arts Theatre, and this year’s “Cinderella” sparkles brighter than ever. As a devoted panto-goer who hasn’t missed a Cambridge Arts Theatre Christmas show in several years, I can confidently say this production hits all the right notes.
The moment you settle into your seat, you’re treated to a visual feast with glorious backdrops featuring familiar Cambridge landmarks. It’s these thoughtful touches that make our local panto so special, grounding the fairy tale firmly in the city’s heart.
Matt Crosby, our treasured Cambridge panto veteran, takes on the role of Buttons this year – and what a change to see him out of a dress! His natural comic timing and warm rapport with the audience shine even brighter in this role, proving he doesn’t need a frock to have us rolling in the aisles. Crosby’s performances at the annual panto are the beating heart of the Cambridge shows, delivering both laughs and touching moments with equal skill.
The Wicked Stepsisters, played with deliciously wicked abandon by Harry Howle and Steven Roberts, are a master class in pantomime villainy. Their outrageous costumes and even more outrageous performances had the audience booing and hissing with gleeful enthusiasm. They struck that perfect balance of being menacing enough to drive the plot forward while being thoroughly entertaining in their awfulness.
Jack Wilcox as Prince Charming delivers a standout performance. His rendition of “Never Enough” brought the house down, showcasing a beautiful voice. But it’s not just his vocal prowess that impresses – he brings a contemporary charm to the role that makes this Prince feel thoroughly modern while maintaining all the fairy tale romance we expect from our panto hero, with a healthy dose of cheese!
The script, penned by Al Lockhart-Morley with additional material from Michael Gattrell and Matt Crosby, deserves special mention. It’s packed with local references and the adult humour is perfectly pitched – cheeky enough to keep the grown-ups entertained while sailing harmlessly over younger heads. There’s something deeply satisfying about a script that can make both grandparents and grandchildren laugh out loud, albeit often for different reasons!
Under Michael Gattrell’s sharp direction, the show moves at a cracking pace, never dragging but allowing just enough time for the audience participation moments that make panto such a unique theatrical experience. The “Oh no it isn’t!” moments feel fresh and spontaneous, despite being as traditional as turkey at Christmas.
This production of “Cinderella” proves once again why Cambridge Arts Theatre’s annual pantomime holds such a special place in local hearts. It’s a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary flair, served up with enough glitter, glamour, and good humour to brighten even the darkest winter evening. Don’t miss this magical treat – it’s everything a pantomime should be.