With a strong cast full of powerful singing voices, this take on the age-old fairytale ‘Cinderella’ was a humorous and enjoyable experience.
The plot, written by Jude Christian, includes many contemporary twists on the original with Cinderella being a star-obsessed scientist who yearns to see the stars through the unpolluted air of the palace at the ball. Her step-sisters are a comical duo who assist their evil mother and her pet alligator in their attempt to prevent this from occurring. Meanwhile Buttons, Cinderella’s best friend and Fairy Fredbare work on her stunning ball gown and rocket to fly her to the palace. Prince Bob is an endearing, shy prince, who seems to struggle with his street smarts. Having lost his glasses when he meets his wife-to-be, he is attracted to her brains and their shared love of the constellations.
This modern adaptation works against racist and heteronormative stereotypes through its plot and cast, including a love-story between step-sister Popsy and Buttons. The only complaint about this relationship is that it seems slightly rushed at the end and deserves more development throughout the play. The cast is addressed as “guys, gals and non-binary pals” creating an inclusive atmosphere for all. This is added to by the toilets in the venue that state proudly on the door: “all genders welcome”.
The top three acting performances were given by Timmika Ramsay (Cinderella), Mairi Barclay(Topsy) and Jodie Jacobs, playing Buttons. Rhys Taylor’s Fairy Fredbare had lavish outfits and their hilarious railway jokes had everyone chuckling. Costumes by Frankie Bradshaw were appropriately over-the-top and sparkly with the step-sisters wearing “sponsored post” skirts and “#blessed” headwear.
The humour is helped by the constant use of current slang and music; this includes an adaptation of Ed Sheeran’s “I don’t care” and a change from Stormzy’s “Vossi Bop” to “Flossy Mop” which had many in hysterics. Compounding this, the colourful lighting added flair. Crowed participation came in the form of sweets and drones, however, there was a free shower of soapy water that was intended to mimic snow but instead left us with damp, frizzy hair.
This flashy pantomime ended with a Lyric Theatre tradition that I remember from my Primary school days: a hearty rendition of “Glory Glory Hammersmith”.
By Yasmin Burt
