Promises jokes, silliness, singing, dancing, fun...and that sums this panto up!

James Green, The Stage

14 December 2009

The advance publicity promises jokes, silliness, dancing, fun, stunning sets and glittering costumes. That sums this panto up...

Throughout, the singing is commendable and in particular the voice of Pippa Duffy rings loud and clear. No wonder the Prince, played by Tom Yates, is happy to join Cinderella in romantic duets.

Catford has found a quality pair of Ugly Sisters in Oliver Gray and Dean Horner who have the stage names of Louise and Lavinia. Hence Loo and Lav. They dress in a succession of fashion disasters with wigs that defy gravity. Loo and Lav supply all the traditional 'Aren't we beautiful' cliches and join in the sketches. Once again that means the ghost-and-ghoulies and this year's ever present Twelve Days of Christmas nonsense routine.

Fairy Godmother Carol Harrison, ex-Eastenders actress and writer, enjoys herself with a few throw away lines, displays some of the magic of her wand, and is entirely at ease in promoting Cinders' romance and home life.

Maurice Thorogood as Baron Hardup catches the eye and holds the attention throughout. He is ever-ready to push the storyline along and since he is the director, sets a good standard for his cast.

Ever smiling TV presenter Ortis Deley is a likeable ball of confidence as Buttons. Apart from loving and losing Cinderella he delights in the routines, and the kids-on-stage convention. And when it comes to vocal fireworks the dandini of Ezra Tafari provides something special, as do all the adult and children dance teams.