0
The traditional time for pantomime may be leaving us for another year but, rest assured, there is still time to have a right good family day and night out at The Theatre Royal St. Helens with this year’s festive production of Cinderella.
What’s so nice about this theatre is that from the moment you walk in it feels like you’re coming home. Nothing is too much trouble and for that alone it makes the show on offer that bit more special. Not that this production needs much boosting because, from first to last, everything glitters as much as the smiles on the audiences faces, thanks to some first class performances.
As Buttons, Ben Engelen is the engine behind much of the frivolity, aided nicely by Simon Foster as the somewhat cantankerous Fairy Godmother. As Cinder’s, Laura Gregory shows that she can captivate an audience with her superb singing voice which, when matched with Prince Charming’s Jack Rigby, cannot fail to ignite a chemistry. Indeed, the scene in which the two ‘star crossed lovers’ meet upon a wall is totally priceless and almost worthy of the admission fee alone.
As for the ubiquitous Ugly Sisters, Charlie Griffiths again underlines her outstanding grasp of comedy, whereas Crissy Rock simply does what comes naturally… entertain.
Yet by far the most scintillating role – that of Dandini- is taken over by current Corrie bad boy Marc Baylis who simply oozes charisma, charm and presence at every turn, making this a Christmas gift of a performance to savour.
With some jaw dropping choreography, set pieces of puppetry and lights, audience participation galore and a good old fashioned feel good factor to warm the cockles of even Scrooge’s stony heart, Cinderella at The Theatre Royal St. Helens is a must see while you still can.
Cinderella
Theatre Royal, St. Helens
December 4 – January 10
Director: Chantelle Nolan
Writers: Jane Joseph/ Liam Mellor
Choreographer: Nazene Danielle Langfield
Costumers: Regal Entertainment
Cast Includes: Marc Baylis, Crissy Rock, Ben Engelen, Charles Griffiths, Jack Rigby, Laura Gregory, Simon Foster, Benedict Felton
Running Time: 2 hrs. 30
PR Rating: **** Magical!