ONCE upon a time, an enchanting fairy tale loved for its rags to riches optimism was magically transformed into a heart-warming pantomime set in a wonderland of glittering palaces and fairy glades. All this and more are captured in Cinderella, as it bubbles over with sparkling performances from not only its three TV stars but every member of the fine cast. Three cheers too for the spectacular costumes and the extravagant sets. The magnificent Ruth Madoc (Gladys Pugh in Hi-de-Hi) is a lavishly-attired and delightful Fairy Godmother and Tom Owen (Tom Simmonite in Last of the Summer Wine) is Baron Hardup, claiming that 'only a Yorkshireman can do a proper 'Ayup.' proclaims that 'Cinderella is destined to meet a right royal fella.'
Endearing himself to the children and adults alike, Mark Homer (Tony Hills in EastEnders) is the loveable Buttons, who ensures the action continues at a cracking pace. The excellent performances from Bobby Kent and Jamie Morris as the horrid Ugly Sisters deserved a lot more boos than they received, but perhaps the audience was spellbound at their wonderfully ludicrous coiffeurs and dozens of outrageous costumes.
Eight adorable and unbelievably confident children from the Barbara Jackson School of Dance sparkle with happiness in their highly polished dancing display as they almost steal the show!
Tom Owen (Tom Simmonite in Last of the Summer Wine) is Baron Hardup, claiming that 'only a Yorkshireman can do a proper 'Ayup.' You don't need to take a child with you - this panto is for everyone. There is no smuttiness or innuendo, just good clean wholesome fun for all the family.
CINDERELLA. Blackpool Grand Theatre, until January 5
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