Cinderella

Pantomime, like books for children, faces some pretty stiff competition these days. Parents have to entice their little ones away from the Playstation, the Internet, the 24-hour cartoon channel. Can the magic of theatre still weave its enchantment on young minds in the 21st century? 

 

Well if this year’s Playhouse production is anything to go by, the answer is a resounding yes. Cinderella is a stomping good play, crafted with expertise and a sheer love for live performance. The under-tens are a notoriously tough audience to please but judging from all the laughter on opening night the cast pull it off. Adult theatregoers were clearly having a great time too.

 

The script by Kenneth Alan Taylor has all the hallmarks of panto, but is refreshingly clean of the wink-wink innuendo often written in to keep the grown-ups happy. Sure, there are a few spicy chuckles, but the emphasis is on knockabout humour and crowd participation. The outlandish costumes, which make Lady Gaga’s outfits look tepid, are also hilarious.

Adam Barlow, as Buttons, was an instant hit and guided the audience through the story with charm and confidence. John Elkington, Anthony Hoggard and Jeffrey Longmore made excellent dames, perfect for hissing and booing. The rest of the cast were all on great knee slapping, song-belting, toe-tapping form.

 

The choice of songs was eclectic and instantly recognisable, everything from classics like the Monkees and Willy Wonka to modern standards from Take That and The Wanted. As for the Maroon 5 number, when Buttons moved it like Jagger to deafening applause, well that was a gem to keep the smile on our faces through the long winter months ahead.

 

The sets are glittering, whimsical scenes straight from the Brothers Grimm. Stage designer Tim Meacock deserves a medal for that alone. Then there are the star-spangled ponies that descend from above to pull Cinder’s coach, and the giant clock that appears to tick away the seconds to midnight. Both lavish touches that spark those childhood imaginations. 

 

One eleven-year-old said his favourite moment was the Dames’ crazy song and dance routine where they bust almost every move known to choreography. A seven-year-old said he just loved it all. A great night out for the Christmas season, full of memories the children will look back on for years to come. 

 

Cinderella runs at Nottingham Playhouse  until Saturday 14 January 2012.

 

Students can see Cinderella for the bargain price of £9. Quote ‘Student Slippers’ when calling to redeem your £9 ticket offer or, if booking online enter ‘studentslippers’ BEFORE choosing your seats.

 

Ian Douglas