ONE of the longer running pantos in the area at Durham Gala opened with all the glitter and sparkle you’d expect for Cinderella. There is nothing better as a panto opens, the lights going down, an explosion hitting the senses and even though you have the familiarity of the story, you have an expectation of something a little bit different full of surprises every time. Instantly I was taken to a different land and became engrossed throughout.
Opening with the locals in the village of No Place, Buttons (Jude Nelson) draws the audience in. Her comedy, magic and natural charisma instantly makes her a firm favourite to the audience, young and old. Although Buttons clearly likes Ella, this is much more subtle than you may have seen previously, which works so much better. Ella (Charlotte Bradley) is only referred to as Cinderella by the stepsisters Philophobia (Rosie Stancliffe), Monophobia (Sarah Boulter) and Ella’s stepmother, Lady Longbottom (Kris Manuel) as they add cinder to her name as she is always so dirty. As a trio for me they were too likable and not evil enough throughout. Ella is delightfully innocent, gentle and sweet, perfect for the younger audience. In this version Ella has a friend, in the form of an oversized mouse called Pipsqueak (Daniel Butcher) he loves cheese and as a result has the cheesiest jokes in the show.
The Prince (Lewis Kennedy) and Dandini (Josh Betteridge) make a brilliant pairing during forest scene. Finally of course the show wouldn’t be complete without the Fairy Godmother (Jessica Brady) she really come into her own in the first act finale, what a voice.
The costumes, lighting, choreography and the live band make this an amazing panto for all the family, brilliantly written by Gary Kitching.
Durham Gala have done it again with their panto, running until 6th January 2024.
