Cinderella at Derby Arena – Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Liz
Another opportunity for my family and I to head to the theatre to watch a crowd favourite pantomime. This year’s pantomime adaptation of Cinderella, written by the award-winning Morgan Brind, is a true delight for audiences of all ages. Combining laugh-out-loud humour, sparkling spectacle, and a generous dose of audience participation, it brings new life to the classic fairy tale. Brind not only penned the script but also stars as one of the Ugly Sisters, alongside Roddy Peters, forming a hilariously wicked duo that steals the show with their razor-sharp wit and wonderfully over-the-top antics.
The Ugly Sisters, decked out in outrageously garish and utterly sensational costumes, deliver scene after scene of brilliantly executed wry humour. Brind and Peters share impeccable chemistry, bouncing off one another in a way that keeps the audience in stitches. Their larger-than-life personas bring just the right balance of menace and comedy, making them a perfect foil to the sweetness of Ella and her dreams.
The set design is nothing short of breath taking. The seamless transitions between scenes, transports the audience from the shabby confines of Ella’s home to the grandeur of the royal palace with jaw-dropping fluidity. A highlight of the evening is the awe-inspiringly magical transformation scene, featuring Ella’s carriage. As it sparkled and glided across the stage, audible gasps filled the venue, a true testament to the creative brilliance of the production team.
Audience participation is integral to the panto experience, and this production leans into it with gusto. Poor Buttons, played with boundless energy by Kristian Cunningham, has the unenviable task of wrangling the crowd, which proved to be quite a challenge on the night I attended. Despite some initial hesitance from the audience—at one point, it felt like only my row was invested in being involved – relentless charm eventually won them over. His moments of direct engagement, combined with his hapless devotion to Ella, made him an endearing highlight of the show.
Ella, played by the radiant Lucy Munden, perfectly embodies the character’s kindness and resilience. Orphaned as a child and subjected to the cruelty of her stepmother, Helen Bacquagain (a deliciously wicked Marisa Harris), and stepsisters, Ella’s plight tugs at the heartstrings. Munden’s warm performance draws the audience into Ella’s world, making her eventual triumph all the more satisfying.
The Fairy Godmother (played by Mina Anwar of Happy Valley and The Thin Blue Line) adds a sprinkle of enchantment to the story. Anwar’s portrayal is as sparkling as her costume, exuding charm and whimsy while delivering some of the evening’s most memorable magical moments.
The venue itself complements the magic on stage. Spacious, clean, and well-organized, it offers a comfortable setting for the performance. The array of confectionery and refreshment bars ensures that everyone can indulge in a treat or two, adding to the festive atmosphere.
From its sensational costumes and dynamic performances to its breath taking, interchangeable sets and heart warming story, Cinderella captures the essence of a perfect pantomime. Morgan Brind’s adaptation brims with humour, heart, and sparkle, making it an unforgettable experience for the holiday season. Don’t miss the chance to be swept up in the magic—this Cinderella truly shines!
There is parking at Derby Arena, pre booked parking is ideal, however, there is the opportunity to pay £3 via cash or card on arrival.
Rating: 5/5
Cinderella is showing at Derby Arena from 6th December to 31st December 2024
Tickets cost between £20-£31 plus any booking fees. They can be purchased from www.derbylive.co.uk or by calling 01332 640011
Derby Arena, Royal Way, Derby DE24 8JB