IF you want to know why St Helens’ Christmas pantomime pulls in the crowds from across the region, then head down to the Theatre Royal this festive season for the proof you need.
This year’s performance of Cinderella is brilliant, as a good as panto gets.
From stunning costumes and choreography, to a spectacular set and staging, wonderful cast, mesmerising music and a brilliant script…this was two hours of singing, dancing and gags (with plenty of homespun humour thrown in for good measure) that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
It also served as another reminder about the joyous atmosphere of this grand Corporation Street theatre and why it’s a delight to see it bouncing back from the problems caused by Covid.
Star of the show was undoubtedly the brilliant Buttons, played by Lewis Devine, who fizzed across the stage like an electric ball of fun, setting the rapid tempo for this spectacular show, where there seemed to be a surprise around every corner.
You’ll have to go a long way to find a more energetic and compelling performance in a panto this season than that served by the dazzling Devine, the man who prepared St Helens’ Jamie Leahey for his successful run in Britain’s Got Talent.
But the rest weren’t far behind, Corrie actress Kimberley Hart-Simpson was the perfect leading lady and made a belting ‘Northern’ Cinders.
And Britain’s Got Talent winner Jon Courtenay excelled as Dandini, with his effortless humour making him a firm favourite with the audience.
No panto quite hits the mark without the villains though, so take a bow Kristopher Bosch and Richard Aucott for their dastardly roles as the ugly sisters.
BGT runner up Jamie, meanwhile, is appearing in some of the shows, and the crowd, especially the younger members, were delighted with his role as postie alongside puppet Chuck.
Look, there are few that don’t know the Cinderella story, so you’ll know what to expect in the storyline.
But this journey takes you on hilarious ride and we don’t want to spoil the surprises by mentioning the highlights that may come your way.
Yes, as with many pantos there is a degree of adult-themed humour – so you may want to prepare yourselves for that.
On the whole, this is a a captivating and joyous adventure that should deliver a right barrel of laughs to families over the festive period.
Is there a better panto showing in the North West? This would take some beating.
Andrew Kilmurray
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