It was so good we didn’t want it to end.
Cinderella at the Kings Theatre, Southsea, is a sensational, sparkling show, suitable for all ages, packed with laughs, stunning costumes and sets, and outstanding performances.
Fairly Twinkle Toes dazzled in silver, longing for her fairy wings but only able to achieve them when she unites Cinderella with her Prince Charming at the end.
Played by the renowned Jack Edwards, who is a Southsea legend, and also known as a “fat man in a frock” his Dame is fantastic. Earthy, saucy, cheeky, gentle and robust, he dominates the stage and brings the audience along for the ride.
Joining him on the raucous rollercoaster is the boundless Buttons. Roe Rowntree’s energy and on stage antics were limitless, his facial expressions and characterisations were impressive and delightful, and he kept the audience levels of enjoyment at an all time high.
Another joy was Cinderella played by the enchanting Michelle Antrobus. Although her credits include Captain America, her panto career started early at Ferneham Hall in Fareham as a young dancer.
She recently told Voice FM how she always wanted to be the princess in the dress at the end and it was touching that we were there to see her dreams come true.
Her singing voice is superb, and easily switches from loveable yet downtrodden dogsbody to her wicked sisters, to graceful princess. Michelle certainly has the touch of ‘Disney’ about her.
The wicked stepsisters, Polyfilla and Nutella, are the ones you love to hate, and Julia Worsley and Harry Howle really play up to the part.
Out of all of the cast they have the most striking costumes and with their towering, elaborate headpieces and vicious humour, make them both equally loathsome creatures and loveable rogues.
The Charming Prince and Dandini are chalk and cheese when it comes to style and attitude, yet both complement each other well and it’s fun to watch them swapping roles.
Even though they both found success through TV and pop they take to the stage well and you’ll have to find out if Ben Ofoedu (above left) sings “that song” and if this is a ‘First Dates triumph’ for Grant Urquhart (above right).
The Fairy King was played by Peter McCrohon and his deep, velvety tones resonated around the beautiful theatre.
There were many musical numbers with a well drilled dance team, including seven young performers, who excelled along with Cinderella during “This Is Me”.
I counted thirteen dancers on stage plus Cinderella who demonstrated their beautiful dancing during this song in a tight space and pulled it off perfectly.
There were a couple of moments in the show where the cast showed their true professionalism and comic touch when there were technical difficulties with the sound, and also two unfortunate souls arrived late.
Tip for future audience members - arrive on time if you don’t want to be part of the show!
There are all the classic routines and gags that make up a classic panto and you really will get your money’s worth. In fact, one of our party said it was the best entertainment he had had all year, and the audience certainly had a ball.
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