REVIEW: CINDERELLA - Liverpool Empire Theatre

Christmas is officially here when the panto lands on the stage of the Liverpool Empire theatre. With the magnificent glitz and glamour of an enchanting set and a cast of seasoned professionals playing the familiar roles of a much loved fairytale, it is no wonder that the auditorium was packed to the rafters on press night with children and adults alike. There's something more magical about seeing children eagerly awaiting the unfolding of a panto with their flashing wands in full effect and eyes wide with innocent anticipation.

Cinderella is produced by Qdos Entertainment, a family owned business rooted in traditional entertainment values. The set was breathtaking and the glitter that sparkled from both the set and the elaborate costumes of the cast was mesmerising and marvellously festive. What I love about the panto is the fact that there is something for everyone. When done well, (which this offering by executive producer Michael Harrison and director Bob Tomson clearly was), the perfect balance is struck between the appropriate level of  humour to entertain the children and  the right level to amuse and engage the mature theatre-goers. The gags were witty, the innuendo's not overboard and the result was a captivated crowd in fits of laughter.

Photo Credit - Mark McNulty

 John Evans plays Buttons and delights the audience as soon as he arrived on stage. Gaining the trust and attention, of the younger members of the audience his one-liners were classic. My jaw hit the floor when he joked with fairy godmother Jodie Prenger with a quick fire round of gags in "Who wants to be a millionaire" style. All I will say is wait for the joke about Adam and Eve. It's all in good taste however and the energy between them is fantastic.

Photo Credit - Mark McNulty

Cinderella was played by Olivia Sloyan and she was super. Her vocals were stunning alongside the amazing Jodie Prenger and Duncan James and the audience were treated to many beautiful harmonies and duets. 

Photo Credit - Mark McNulty

Duncan James plays Prince Charming and is great in his role as the dashing prince. His vocal performances were strong and his interaction with the rest of the cast worthy of commendation. I was particularly impressed by the choreography and overall result of the scene where the ensemble performed a re-mix of Ed Sheeran's "Shape of you" and called it "Prince like you". It lacked the customary cheesy element so characteristic of panto and was absolutely excellent.

Photo Credit - Mark McNulty

The ugly sisters (Hernia and Verruca) were superb and were played by the fabulous Daniel Taylor and James Templeton. In their ridiculously loud, garish outfits, they exploded on stage in every sense of the word and created havoc. A particular favourite scene of mine was where they performed an impeccably elaborate and risque tongue twister which John Evans which tackled the subject of of a pucker pleasant peasant pheasant plucker. You can guess what happened next. It was a brilliant scene.

Photo Credit - Mark McNulty

The audience was transported through a variety of scenarios; from the edge of the enchanted forest, to Hardup Hall, the home of Cinderella and her sisters to the incredible ball. Local references kept things relevant and they learnt about Beyonce of Birkenhead and Princess Katie from Kirby, all hilarious pieces of information cleverly weaved into the fabric of the storyline.

The visual effects were excellent throughout and the pyrotechnics were the best I've ever seen. It was a wonderful way to officially mark the festive season as open and a treat for all ages. Don't delay in getting your ticket to this enchanting rags to riches pantomime. Get your tickets before the clock strikes midnight and you shall go to the ball.

The show runs at the Liverpool Empire until Sunday 7th January 2018

Running Time: 2 hours 15 minutes including 20 minute interval

PR Rating - Magical 4 star performance.

Buy your tickets here