Totally nasty Uglies are a hoot in cheerful panto

THIS production of Cinderella was nicely traditional with lots of local children involved in the staging.

There was more than a nod to ‘Strictly’ fever! Fairy Godmother (Claire Tyler) sets the scene for Cinderella (Clare Sykes) with a brilliant Buttons (Adam Schumacher) happily extemporising all over the place. The Uglies – twins in this case - Fergy (Ashley Spall) and Gerty (Sarah Lucas) were totally nasty to Cinders but equally nasty to each other – their slangy matches were very funny and Fergy’s habit of taking bad news with a loud and infantile howl was extremely funny. Their costumes were over-the-top wonderful, particularly for the ball. I found Baron Hardup (Steven Vent) difficult to understand but he was supposed to be seeking solace in drink.

The Prince (Jen Smith) and Dandini (Hannah Townsend) provided Cinderella’s love interest, plus the Uglies chose two unsuspecting members of the audience – I would have run away at half time!

The audience – lots of children and families – were clearly engrossed, though there was some confusion from little ones who maybe hadn’t been to a panto before. I heard a confused little voice ask ‘Is that a man?’! My favourite scene was turning a pumpkin into the coach – very clever.

All in all this production has some witty dialogue and some sweet songs. A really nice touch was that the whole cast was in the foyer to say Goodbye, Cheerio, Toodle Oo, Adios – you’ll know what I’m quoting when you go.

Jane Howard