By Michelle Rawlins.
The York panto has been something of a tradition for loyal theatre goers for years.
And despite a change in Dames after the much-loved Berwick Kaler finally hung up his frocks and multi coloured stockings, the audience were as enthralled as ever during this year’s offering of the laughter-inducing Cinderella.
The Panto had everything you would expect from a festive fun loving show, with the ghost inspired ‘It’s behind you’ to ‘Oh no you’re not’ and a tongue twisting singalong competition, ever present.
But, as you would expect, there is so much more to this extravaganza, superbly directed and produced by Paul Hendry and Juliet Forster, including a pop-up video appearance from Paul O’Grady, who as chief magician gives the full-on sparkly Fairy Godmother (Sarah Leatherbarrow) instructions on how to gain her magic wand.
And she knows exactly what is needed to ensure Cinderella, the endearingly enchanting Faye Campbell, gets to the ball – in a spell-binding flying horse and carriage – a real highlight to this magical production.
If that wasn’t enough, for the younger members of the audience, incredibly entertaining CBeebies presenter, Andy Day, didn’t fail to disappoint as an all singing and dancing Dandini, Prince Charming’s (Benjamin Lafayette’s) right hand man.
To add to the fun this year, Buttons, award winning comedian and ventriloquist, Max Fulham, was a real bonus, with his amusing side-kick, Gordon the Monkey. At one point as well as juggling three balls with one hand, he recited the alphabet backwards at speed, eliciting a well-deserved round of applause.
The comfortable chemistry is ever present amongst the star-studded cast, and Dame replacements, the ‘Ugly Sisters’, Manky and Mardy, played by theatre pros Robin Simpson, whose facial expressions alone are worthy of an accolade, and Paul Hawkyard, definitely know how to ensure there was much laughter, and created the rightly expected rounds of traditional ‘boos’ and heckles.
As well as the slap stick comedy one liners, a healthy dose of ad-libbing, the ever-changing colourful costume changes and a fabulous set, there’s a nod to Strictly Come Dancing, with a superbly choreographed dance routine, lots of audience participation, including some poor bloke at the front being chosen at the Ugly Sister’s favourite beau, and a satirical jab at Boris Johnson.
For a fantastically fun family show, with lots of Christmas merriment to keep young and old entertained, you can’t go far wrong with this action packed, fast paced panto this festive season.
Running until January 2, 2022
Tickets from York Theatre Royal