Review: Cinderella - St George's Theatre (14.12.2025)

Cinderella at the beautiful St George's Theatre is everything a proper family pantomime should be - full of song, dance, loud costumes, slapstick comedy, and a smattering of jokes that go over kids' heads.

In the title role is Cerys Bright, as the usual put-upon, younger sister. Bright offers a performance typified by an easy charm and beautiful vocals throughout. Despite apparently being dressed in rags, I reckon there'll be plenty among the audience envious of her rather glam outfit.

Cinders is desperate for an invite to the TV show hosted by Prince Charming (Rory Connolly) in order to find a bride. Connolly is wonderful in the role throughout, but it's his vocal ability that stands him head and shoulders above the rest, and not just his lofty stature.

Kyle Fraser and Paul Huntley Thomas have a whale of a time as the awful sisters, Horsey and Gap and have the audience booing at every possible moment along with their wicked mother (Alice Audrey O'Hanlon), all of whom are determined to ensure Cinderella can't attend the Prince's TV show.

Fortunately her Fairy Godmother (the excellent O'Hanlon doubles up in the role) is on hand to see that she attends in style, and the story largely plays out as you'd expect.

At the heart of the action is the irrepressible force that is Rachael Cummins as Buttonz (with a 'Z'). The character this time is a wannabe DJ who befriends Cinderella after filling a post as a household servant. Cummins is perfect in the role, delivering daft jokes with glee and forming that all-important relationship with the audience.

Completing the cast is Freddy Riches as Dandini in an assured panto debut, a role he impressively balanced alongside assistant stage management duties.

A special mention must also go to the young dancers of Nabjab Dance School. These weren't just token youngsters relegated to the background - their superb, well-drilled choreography often rightly took centre stage, and helped fill out some of the key musical numbers on what is a fairly large stage.

The show was perfectly paced, with the material all killer and no filler. If you're looking for a high quality, yet budget friendly pantomime, you'll struggle to find better than this one.

Cinderella continues at St George's Theatre, Great Yarmouth until 30 Dec.