CINDERELLA written by Alan P Frayn Directed by Helen Royle Bollington Festival Players What better way to chase away the gloom of the dull, rainy, cold days of January than visiting a pantomime? Productions are packed with fun, songs, dancing and bright colours that are such a tonic to many at this time of the year. The space at the Arts Centre might seem limiting but with some creativity and thought this does not compromise the production. The set, designed by Stephanie Evans and created with the aid of Helen Royle and Lynsey Cooper, was colourful and gave backdrops to the scenes. The Stage Crew, under guidance of Andrew Valentine, worked swiftly inbetween to change the panels so as not to interrupt the flow. Adding to the colour was the wardrobe, put together by Stephanie Narey, Kath Portlock, Georgina Gaddum and Peter Cliffe. This was quite a large ensemble and so I would imagine quite a lot of effort went into the organisation and making of the clothing. This was worth it, in my opinion, as it did look pleasing on the eye. All this was illuminated by the lighting created by Kim Creasey and the team. I have seen this version of “Cinderella”, penned by Alan P Frayn, in the past and I am always surprised at how the same dialogue can be interpreted and acted in different and creative ways. This is all down to the actors taking the words from the page and putting their own slant and personality into them. Kristina Lisle and Isabella Cooke as Fairy G and Fairy Belle respectively; spoke dialogue in rhyme as is traditional for panto. I think a little signature chime would have heralded their arrival to the audience and enhanced the magical effect. Lynsey Cooper, in the title role of Cinderella, was demur and soft in her
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