CINDERELLA is described as the most magical panto of them all! I would say that for the 17th year running Danny Adams and Clive Webb are the most magical panto stars of them all.
From the second the music strikes up, the energy hits 100% and it never stops until the final curtain falls. This is the type of panto which is full of traditional panto themes with plenty of entertaining variety thrown in. It’s because of Mick Potts, Clive Webb and Danny Adams that the audience have been returning every year for almost two decades. Of course, not forgetting Chris Hayward, as one of the hidden gems of a panto Dame, but don’t tell anyone how good he is, we want to keep him at the Theatre Royal.
This year Danny is playing Buttons, Clive is Baron Hardup and Mick is Dandini. Danny is as mad as ever, Clive you expect to be slowing down, but no, he has so much energy, I couldn’t keep up with him. Mick is just perfect for the deadpan comedy, I always want more, his style of comedy is hilarious. The mix of comedy and magic will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout.
Last year was the first time we were introduced to Joe McElderry. At times he looked slightly uncomfortable with some of the interaction with Danny, this year he was in full flow and certainly, alongside Danny, he didn’t just take it, but gave it back to Danny with many funny moments, especially the ones which I hope went over the heads of the younger audience.
Throwing in the amazing quality of The Prince’s Royal Guards are Flawless. They were simply incredible and with their scene as Danny tried to have a dance off - brilliant entertainment.
I haven’t even mentioned the delightful Cinderella as Oonagh Cox, Prince Charming as Wayne Smith and the Ugly Sisters Vindicta, Kylie Ann Ford and Manipulata, Christina Berriman Dawson. Who all brilliantly bring the story alive. Also remember don’t leave to grab an interval drink early, it always ends the first half with one of the most spectacular interval endings.
I was missing Steve Arnott, who is down the road at Darlington Hippodrome this year. Catch up with him there with Christopher Biggins. Hope he’ll be back next year.
I know I haven’t mentioned the story at all in this review as it’s all about the skill of the cast not the story, which makes it so enjoyable and full of Christmas cheer, perfect for this time of the year.
I probably say this every year, but if you seriously only see one panto this year, this has to be it. Always remember you can buy tickets now for next year, so don’t delay.
This is the best panto in the country for variety. Runs until Sunday 15th January 2023.
