Cinderella A Traditional Pantomime by writer, lyricist and director James Barry is based on the original folk tale. However, this latest version has been modernised and current topics written into the storyline to allow the audience to relate and engage with the script. Cinderella (Millicent Blair) and Prince Charming (Max Mirza) take on the hero and heroine roles.

Buttons (Ed Thorpe) brings his usual charm and charisma to the Winchester pantomime. Thorpe’s enthusiasm is contagious and the audience responds to him in equal measures. Some audience members are more enthusiastic than others!

The Wicked Stepsisters performances by Alison Fitzjohn and Laura Dalgleish are the stars of the Pantomime. Traditionally these parts are played to be wicked and cruel to Cinderella. However, they are incredibly likeable and funny throughout the performance. Fitzjohn has an element of devilish wit when engaging with the audience and “that man over there” who shouted in response to her during the ghost scene which took her by surprise.

It would not be complete without a larger-than-life Pantomime Dame/Fairy played by Julian Eardley. She kept the cast in line and the audience entertained with his quick-fire sarcastic humour throughout, some of which was greatly received by the adult members of the audience.

Musical Director Tom Attwood is based in the top right-hand side balcony area. He can be seen engaging with the cast throughout and the music never misses a beat. The timing and rapport of all the cast is excellent. Along with accompanying instrumentals by cast members Ed Thorpe ( Buttons) and Georgina Field (Baroness).

Sam Taylor-Martin choreographer created some brilliant 1920s dance routines along with several eye-catching costume changes by costume makers Beth Rose, Corrine Paddock and Luke Wateridge.

Special mention to professional comedian Thom Tuck in the role of Dandini, Prince Charming’s right-hand man. Whose comedic timing is superb.

The joy of smaller venues staging Pantomimes is the audience interaction. Every performance will be slightly different according to the “banter and heckling” the cast received. This year’s production is everything you’d expect in a Pantomime. Well done to everyone involved I had a great time, “Oh yes I did”!

For more information on this pantomime and future productions at Winchester Theatre Royal please check out the link below.

Five Stars.

https://www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk/whats-on/cinderella