CINDERELLA (UK Productions)
 |
| Jamie Rickers, Emma Nowell & Ruth Madoc |
UK Productions triumphantly return to Malvern Theatres, this
festive season, with the magical, rags to riches tale of Cinderella. They have
breathed refreshing, new life into their show this year with the accomplished
director, Scott Ritchie, whose choreographic background shines through in the
telling of this fairytale.
A seasoned panto professional, Ritchie, slickly directs a
lovely cast to present a great story, with traditional pantomimic elements,
interspersed with song and dance spectaculars. Clearly inspired, Alastair
Bull’s choreography is his best yet, with highlights including the Keystone
Cops inspired woodland hunt and ‘Voguing’ in the palace ballroom. The
professional dancers, many of whom are graduates of Cecilia Hall Dance Centre,
excel themselves and revel in the opportunities afforded them, as do the
current Cecilia Hall girls. Rob Thorne Jnr. brings his musical expertise to the
mix to wow us with great vocal harmonies and instrumental accompaniment.
The legendary, iconic and truly wonderful Ruth Madoc opens
the show as a mere ‘Fairy-on-top-of-the-Christmas-tree’ but soon finds herself
promoted to the more matriarchal character of the Fairy Godmother that we
expect. Hi-Di-Hi fans are in for a treat too! The brilliant Jamie Rickers gets
the award for “The Best Entrance On Stage Ever In The History Of Pantomime”.
His performance, as Buttons, is as hilarious as his physical comedy is
impressive. Emma Nowell is absolutely adorable and perfect as the down trodden,
yet ever hopeful and kind, Cinderella. Don Crann portrays an understated and
gentle Baron Hardup, while Bobbie Kent’s vertically challenged, aging, ugly
sister provides a perfect contrast to Anthony West’s more youthful and imposing
sibling, whose fabulousness is reflected in his fantastic frocks. An unexpected
delight is to be found in the roles of Prince Charming and his valet Dandini,
superbly played by Owen Thompson and Bobby Windebank respectively, as they
croon, tap dance and even energetically ‘Gangnam Style’ it through the show.
This double act breathe a much needed and very welcome, new life and energy
into these two characters, completing the ensemble.
Your Christmastime won’t be complete without this theatrical
treat for all the family. Cinderella runs until Sunday 6th January.
Check with Malvern Theatres for times of performances. Wishing you all a very
merry Christmas and a happy New Year!
No comments:
Post a Comment