Cinderella

CHRISTINE CUNNINGHAM

> Eye Theatre

It is as traditional as Christmas pud and there can be no better way of making any festive break complete than a visit to see the Eye pantomime – Cinderella.

As the theatre's artistic director, Tom Scott, states in the programme, the professional panto set in the intimate atmosphere of this unique theatre has become as much part of the Christmas scene for many as holly and mince pies.

This year's production, which is the 14th Christmas show at the theatre, has something for everyone to enjoy, with a talented cast, plenty of fun and a witty script by writer Nicholas Pegg. There is even a mention of X Factor judge Simon Cowell!

Clara Perez was suitably sweet and demure in her role as Cinderella and versatile Lindsay Jay made a glamorous side-slapping Prince Charming and also doubled up to appear as a dazzling Fairy Godmother.

Andrew McDonald and Sam Razavi had the audience in stitches with their amusing antics as the hideous ugly sisters who tried to make sure poor Cinders would not go to the ball.

Tim Bell warmed the hearts of the audience as the lovable and humorous Buttons and Timothy Michael also gave an excellent performance as the ineffectual Baron Hardup, who was a bit too partial to a glass of alcohol!

The show, directed by Peter Sowerbutts, had some magical special effects when the fairy godmother appeared on stage, and the show itself also provided its own special Christmas magic.

It runs until January 3, and for tickets, phone 01379 870519.