Panto Season has arrived in Prescot and this year’s delight is Cinderella.  We were lucky enough to catch this on its second performance and spoiler alert – it’s a real Christmas Cracker!

We love the Shakespeare North Playhouse, the theatre itself is a wonderful piece of art and the productions are always so original. Cinderella is no exception. 

This well loved fairy tale is given a brand new Prescot twist and it works beautifully.  Whilst it keeps all the elements we love, Cinderella’s charm, the Fairy Godmother’s magic and of course the hilarious Ugly Sisters and wicked step mother, it is packed with clever surprises, wonderful music, lots of local references and a warm, witty script that keeps both children and grown-ups thoroughly entertained.

There are just 5 actors in the cast, playing all the different roles.  They are all fantastic and compliment each other beautifully.  There are suitably ostentatious costumes, the set is simple, sparkling and very effective and the golden coach to take Cinders to the ball is beautiful!

The show uses modern well known songs and there was plenty of impromptu clapping along and toe tapping from the audience.  There are lots of chances to shout out and join in, which everyone embraced. Then during “The Ball”, those who can, are invited to jump to their feet and dance “The Pibble” – a fun easy to pick up dance routine that everyone, young and old, loved and was a great chance for a wriggle for any littler ones!

AS the story progresses, there is a beautiful scene with Old Father Time, a heartwarming message of family, friendship and being true to yourself; and of course as always in pantoland, everything ends happily ever after!

So if you are looking for a theatrical Christmas treat with a difference this year, whether you are 3 or 93, my children and I would definitely recommend Cinderella at the Shakespeare North Playhouse.  It’s wonderfully written, perfectly performed and is fabulous family fun!