What better way to get into the festive spirit than a Christmas Panto? This year’s festive offering at the Grand Opera House is based on one of my all-time favourite childhood films, Cinderella! Having been to a fair few pantos over the years, I found it very refreshing that this production has a modern twist, without taking away from some of the traditional things we’ve all come to expect during Christmas panto season…
The talented Rachel Grundy (as previously seen in Legally Blonde and The Rocky Horror Show) stars as Cinderella, bringing a lovely, soft charm to the title role. ITV’s Mamma Mia winner Tobias Turley also shone in his role as Prince Charming, providing a goofy, loved-up take on the character, supported by his loveable, trusted steed Whinney.
As a longstanding Coronation Street fan, I was also so happy to see Lisa George appearing as the Fairy Godmother. I felt that Lisa (Corrie viewers may know her better as Beth Tinker) played the part perfectly, bringing lots of sparkle to the stage. Who knew that she could sing so well? This lady sure can blast out a tune!
I also loved the ugly sisters (Brandon Nichoson as Harmony Hard-Up and Luke Attwood as Melody Hard-Up), and thought that their costumes, wigs and heels dominated the stage – those ugly gals sure know how to make an entrance! They had the audience thoroughly engaged, and even personally targeted a poor chap in the crowd called Craig. An onstage mishap (when one of the sisters’ wigs tumbled off) added to the humour of the show even more – only in a panto do you get more laughter from an honest mistake!
Also worth a mention is the brilliant Jimmy Bryant, who brought belly laughs aplenty to his performance as Buttons. He really stood out for me, bringing the show to life with his unmistakable humour and high, happy energy. I especially enjoyed Jimmy’s performance of Uptown Funk – he had the whole crowd participating and eating out of his hand!
The young dancers were all fantastic (I always love to see the movers and shakers at the panto), as were the wonderful backup dancers, again, all perfectly attired in amazing costumes. The music selection catered for all generations, including popular numbers from One Direction, Lady Gaga, plus a track from La La Land.
Cinderella really got me into the festive spirit, with all of the usual ‘it’s behind you’ and ‘oh no she didn’t’ gags you’d expect, plus some cheeky adult innuendos for the grown-ups. What more could I ask for? Well, maybe my very own Fairy Godmother!
I will definitely be back to share the festive cheer next year!
Cinderella is now showing at the Grand Opera House, York (YO1 9SW), and running until the 4th of January. Visit www.atgtickets.com/shows/cinderella-pantomime/grand-opera-house-york to book your tickets before the run comes to its end – you shall go to the ball!
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