Cinderella At Buxton Opera House, Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Alexander Wilde
It’s officially Christmas – panto season returns with a production of Cinderella at the incomparable Buxton Opera House! As charming and resplendent as ever, this North Derbyshire gem is the quintessential venue in which to enjoy the magic and marvel of pantomime.
It was a crisp December day and the evening was full of festive cheer as families and friends were greeted warmly by the staff and troop of volunteers that keep the Edwardian theatre thriving. As always, there was a buzz in the air as we settled into our comfortable seats and waited for the curtain to rise.
Welcoming us to Old Buxtonia in a faraway land, the dazzling and lyrical Fairy Godmother (Charlotte-Hannah Jones) opened the show with a prologue – Cinderella’s father had sadly died, leaving their home and fortune to be taken by her Ugly Step-Sisters. The fairy foresees a better future for the heroine, one filled with love and joy, but there will challenges along the way – including a witch, and not least the sisters themselves…
Bringing down the house, the gorgeously gravelly James Holmes, ditches his traditional dame role and takes one-half of the step-sibling duties. Gloriously, he is joined by premier drag performer David Dale. Together these stalwarts of stage and screen, duo as Tess and Claudia – it’s strictly scandalous darling!
The pair of beauties, with a bosom full of double entendres, fill every scene with physical and side-splitting comedy, panto at Buxton wouldn’t be the same without James, but this year there was double the trouble! Purely puntastic and quick witted in every way, and a favourite of young and old alike. As always, the costumes – extravagant and an attraction in their own right! The gents’ dressing team certainly their work cut out.
By the end of Act One, the titular star is ready for the Ball. Played by last year’s Princess, Georgia Gallagher, she has number of stirring solos and pop hits which showcase her vocal talent and is once again perfect for the role.
Back to duet with Georgia, the musically talented and rhythmic Ross Clifton, returns as the Prince. His modern and instantly recognisable style is a delight. Both royals lit up the stage and, perfected in last year’s production, the chemistry between the two was marvellous. They invested a great deal into their roles and will undoubtedly be leading musicals for many years to come. Great to see them on stage together!
Aidan Bailey also makes a welcome reappearance, minus the whiskers, as the lovable compère Buttons. The up-and-coming actor performs with glee and a natural ability to connect with the audience, he quickly established a strong bond for the inevitable back and forth exchanges and active audience participation. In panto trope, as the hapless sidekick, he is smitten with Cinderella. As we know, it is never meant to me, but at least he has his life-sized, Gaga loving rabbit Buns (for which I’m still trying to figure out what his point in the story was)!
Complementing the cast throughout the production were a brilliant ensemble, some of whom were making their panto and professional debuts. These future stars were fully invested and enjoying their part in the extravaganza; singing and dancing their hearts out. Furthermore, extraordinary recognition goes to the orchestral and technical team – as always stunning staging and costuming, uplifting tunes with perfectly timed sound and visual effects too. Each year is better than the last – like the love story itself, everything seemed to sparkle!
Overall, the scene changes and musical interludes were punchy and perfectly balanced for the audience age range. The pop hits were very current and always had the audience bopping along. The narrative flowed easily and we were left wanting more. Superb writing and direction, with high production values.
You know the story, if the shoe should fit… however this terrific tale will keep you hooked and grinning until the very end. My only wish is the show could have lasted longer; it was simply magnificent! Before the clock chimes midnight, book your tickets to the Ball this Christmas, because panto season is back and not to be missed! Cinderella at Buxton Opera House is a spellbinding Christmas treat for the whole family.
Rating: 4/5 Four Magical Stars
Running until 1st January 2024, with tickets priced from £12 to £27, book online https://buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/event/cinderella, visit or call the Box Office 01298 72190.
Buxton Opera House, Water Street, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 6XN
The charming, Edwardian Buxton Opera House, and neighbouring Pavilion Arts Centre, stand within the heart of the clean, well-lit, and popular Peak District spa town. The grand architecture welcomes you to the beautiful Pavilion Gardens – offering vast grounds to explore with a boating lake, miniature train, play areas, fountains, and wildlife to see.
The main foyer is elegant, providing easy access to all levels and toilets. You are sure of a warm greeting and a great atmosphere. The bars/concession stands are well manned, stocked and of standard prices for theatres. I have sat in both stall and dress circle seats; both are comfortable and provide excellent views of the stage.
The Theatre is surrounded by a range of bars, restaurants, and hotel options for a wonderful day or night out in the bustling town. Arriving by car, routes to the theatre were well signposted and nearby parking was plentiful. The town is also well served by train and bus stops, within walking distance.