It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and a visit to Cardiff’s iconic New Theatre to see Cinderella, the fairy godmother of all pantos, is sure to get you into the festive spirit. With magically vibrant and elaborate sets, epic special effects and colourful costumes, this enchanting show will leave the whole family spellbound.
Legendary south Wales panto dame Mike Doyle makes a triumphant return as the cruel and wicked stepmother – Baroness Voluptua Fortuna, complete with a very Cardiffian accent – accompanied by shrieking, uncouth ugly sisters Tess and Claudia, played by Lucy Elson and Jalisa Phoenix-Roberts in suitably garish costumes. They are joined on stage by Gethin Jones, a very handsome Prince Charming in pursuit of Denquar Chupak’s sweet, innocent but downtrodden Cinderella.
As Buttons, Jack Ryan is the classic third wheel to the starcrossed couple and provides lots of cheeky laughs and a good amount of innuendo, while Stephanie Webber, with her powerful voice and natural charm, is delightful as the Fairy Godmother. Yet the undoubted star of the show is the wonderful Owain Wyn Evans – who delights as a dapper Dandini, providing the perfect comedic foil to Prince Charming and showing off his great singing voice. It’s hard to believe that this is his first foray into panto: he’s a natural, and very popular with the audience.
All the beloved British pantomime ingredients are here. Highlights include a rendition of The 12 Days Of Christmas, a very impressive tongue-twister scene and – of course –wonderfully energetic dancing routines from the ensemble, with dancing pumpkins and tapdancing woodland bears a particular visual treat. However, it was the special effects which elevated the show into a truly magical experience – the finale to the first half was breathtaking… ah, but no spoilers here.
Cinderella at the New Theatre – which, incidentally, celebrated its 118th birthday on the evening I was in attendance! – is a perfect feelgood family festive treat, so grab your gladrags and enjoy the ball…
Cinderella, New Theatre, Cardiff, Tue 10 Dec.
On until Sun 5 Jan. Tickets: £24-£48. Info: here
words SARAH EDWARDS photos TIM DICKESON
