Cinderella – Buxton Opera House
Derby Days Out headed to the historic Buxton Opera House on Saturday for a performance of this year’s pantomime, Cinderella!
The atmosphere in the theatre was electric as families awaited the start of this year’s panto. The stage was set with the backdrop of the infamous clock and festive songs greeted the audience. As the curtain rose, the Fairy Godmother arrived in style to a flash of fireworks to set the scene for the story.
The opening number of ‘Dancing in the Streets’ got the party started in traditional panto style, with fantastic costumes and visually stunning set design that set the tone for the fairy tale to unfold. The script was full of wit, warmth and double meaning, with references to local landmarks such as ‘Chatupsworth’ and the play itself set in ‘Buxtonia’.
The cast delivered outstanding performances, bringing the beloved characters to life with energy, humour, and of course, plenty of audience participation! Cinderella, played by Georgia Gallagher, captivated the crowd and the indomitable Ugly Sisters, ‘Tess and Claudia’, portrayed by James Holmes and David Dale, stole the show with their hilarious antics, over-the-top personalities and on-point comic timing!
A personal highlight for us was the brilliantly chosen music, featuring hits such as ‘Dance the Night’, ‘The Shoop Shoop Song’, and even an original ballad penned by Buttons’ pet rabbit, Buns! A special mention must go to the Fairy Godmother, Charlotte-Hannah Jones, for her exceptional vocal performances throughout! The music and fantastic choreography had everyone clapping along and brought the performance to life!
Cinderella captured the magic of the classic fairy tale and combined it with everything you would want in a good panto: a love story, outrageous dames, cracking choreography and an abundance of laughter! It did not disappoint and left us smiling for hours after the finale!
Cinderella is the perfect family night out this Christmas!
"the perfect family night out this Christmas!" - DerbyDaysOut.co.uk
Photography by David John.
