Cinderella at Darlington Hippodrome

One of the most eagerly awaited shows of the year opened at Darlington Hippodrome, the annual pantomime, and once again the families of Darlington are in for a treat.  Cinderella by Crossroads Pantomime Productions (who also have Snow White on at the Theatre Royal Newcastle) brings all the expected glitz, glamour and family fun – the perfect ingredients for an enjoyable few hours and a lovely way to begin the season's festivities.

Cinderella (Tanisha Butterfield making her debut) is desperate to escape her oppressive step family and dreams of meeting Mr Right, Prince Charming (Jacob Leeson) who in turn feels that his title is the only thing would-be brides are attracted by.  Swapping places with his valet, Dandini ( Spin) he befriends Cinders without her realising he is royalty and thus the scene is set for the most famous premise in all of storyland “Cinders, you shall go to the ball”.

Star billing as the fairy godmother goes to Faye Tozer, super pop star with Steps and as a solo artist. Not only can Faye sing (which we all know) but she’s a great actor too, very relaxed and natural and clearly enjoying the role.  Her Steps medley to close the show had everyone on their feet and not surprisingly most still know the dance routines.   Playing opposite Faye as Buttons is Patrick Monahan – brilliantly funny although at times his natural wit is somewhat curtailed by the safe writing – there’s no too much double entendres for the adults but plenty of child focussed toilet humour.

Sadly, missing from this story is an evil entity – there is no wicked step mother to whom the audience can direct their boos and hisses.  The ugly sisters (Peter Peverley and Phil Corbitt) try and bring some Geordie styled badness but traditionally they were always meant to be selfish and spiteful, not nasty and wicked.

Being honest, in the region there are funnier pantos (Danny Adams,  Clive Webb and Mick Potts in Snow White, Theatre Royal Newcastle), there is more originality (Nutcracker Re-Miced at Durham Gala)  and there is the best villain in the land (Neil Armstrong in Robin Hood, Durham Gala) so whilst in comparison this is somewhat underwhelming, what this Cinderella gives you is a wonderfully safe, family friendly show to which you can confidently take young children who will enjoy a traditional production.