đ Cinderella
đ Richmond Theatre
đď¸ Gifted
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Richmond Theatreâs annual panto has arrived, and itâs absolutely marvellous! I was invited to a fun & festive performance of Cinderella, featuring a stellar cast – Charlie Stemp, Helen George, and TV icon, Basil Brush! I’ve heard wonderful things about the pantomimes at Richmond Theatre & this did not disappoint.
Directed by Gary Wilmont, this entertaining production re-imagines the classic tale of Cinderella, with notable characters and more. With all the traditional panto ingredients, this proves to be a delightfully charming show! The show feels extra festive, with all the sparkles, atmospheric lighting and wonderfully Christmassy numbers.
Helen George is enchanting as the Fairy Godmother, arriving on stage in a burst of pyrotechnics. Her vocals are stunning, especially when she shows off her operatic range. Georgeâs comic delivery was another highlight, and we enjoyed all the âCall the Midwifeâ jokes throughout.
Tom Major makes a fantastic Prince Charming and has a beautiful voice, while Hope Dawe is an excellent Cinderella; she has a warm, Disney-like presence and brings a fun spirit to the show. Thereâs a playful love triangle between Prince Charming, Cinderella, and her friend, Buttons. They literally fight for Cinderellaâs affection, in a comical musical number involving physical comedy and tumbles off a wall.
Charlie Stemp impresses as Buttons and proves himself to be a pantomime legend! Stemp lights up the stage with his charisma, charm, terrible jokes and impeccable comedic timing. He has the audience in the palm of his hand, as we cheer for and even âawwwâ for him.
Though there are no traditional panto dames, the wicked stepsisters, Verucca & Hernia Hardup (played brilliantly by Jak Allen-Anderson and Stephen Guarino) certainly make up for it. They are a hilarious duo, strutting around in the most dazzling, flamboyant costumes (the stripy pink number was a personal fave!). As the sisters proclaim, âDonât we look gorgeous?!â, the audience erupts with boos, although I couldnât help but cheer. Allen-Anderson and Guarino were over-the-top, silly and had excellent comedy and ad-libs. Their remixed ABBA routine as they try to squeeze into Cinderellaâs glittery heels was one of my highlights.
Celebrating over 60 years on TV, the legendary Basil Brush makes a booming entrance as Baron Basil. His witty jokes, physical comedy, and a tongue-twister segment had the audience laughing out loud. Having watched Basil Brush as a child, I found his appearance so nostalgic, and judging by the reactions around me, I wasnât the only one.
Stephen Mearâs choreography is captivating throughout. The ensemble shines as they perform slick, high-energy routines, including one in polar bear outfits! Musical theatre stars Michael Lin (playing Dandini) and Charlie Stemp star in a hilarious dance off. Lin displayed real technical flair and a variety of dance styles, while Stemp opted for classic school disco dances from the Macarena to the Ketchup Song. Lin and Stemp perform a quick but impressive dance duet, which made me want even more!
I had hoped for a little more audience interaction, like with most pantos, but overall, the fabulous cast ensures we are thoroughly entertained! There were plenty of laughs for all the classic Panto sketches and even the references to local spots (Putney!!).
From lively dance numbers, dazzling costumes, a vibrant set design, and all the slapstick chaos you could imagine â this Cinderella is a brilliant panto for all ages! Itâs playing at Richmond Theatre until 4 January.
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