DDO Review of Sleeping Beauty 2021
Two years have passed since we last visited Derby Arena panto land, and it was SO GOOD to be back! The huge sparkling stage was set, and we had our popcorn at the ready! The audience atmosphere felt festive with an array of Christmas jumpers, lights and Sleeping Beauty costumes! It was exciting to be back in the arena to see Derby LIVE and Little Wolf Entertainment’s ‘Sleeping Beauty’!
The story follows young princess Rose who has an evil spell cast on her by Carbosse who felt very put out after not being invited to her Christening. The spinning wheel plays a major role and the whole kingdom falls asleep for 100 years while it’s left to pet Dragon ‘St John’ to look after Derbion castle! Prince Vince must fight his way through the overgrown forest to wake Rose and save the Kingdom! Prince Vince finds himself in s spot of trouble too, so it takes a fresh modern-day twist!
Holly couldn’t wait to see Nurse Nancy Nightly, played by the delightful Morgan Brind! You know it’s Christmas when he enters the stage! He never fails to make us all laugh! I honestly cannot wait to see what outfits are in store for us and this year certainly did not disappoint!
Richard Brindley plays Mervin the Magician (Nancy’s side-kick). It was fantastic to see them back together on stage as they bring so much energy and make a total hotch-potch of things!
Holly’s favourite character was ‘Fairy Lights’ played by Abigail Finley. The classic fairy-tale-fairy who remains with you every step of the way to help protect the kingdom from Carabosse, played by former EastEnders start, Rita Simmons who fits in perfectly to the role of the evil fairy!
Mya (12 years old) and Holly (10 years old) absolutely loved it! We shared giggles and joined in with the songs, were dazzled by their costumes and glow in the dark puppetry!
Hats off to all the cast, ensemble, the band and production team for creating such a fantastic magical show! To put this together under recent circumstances is truly amazing.
If you’re looking for that extra Christmas spirit with an added sprinkle of sequins and glitter you won’t fail to come away from ‘Sleeping Beauty’ with a big smile on your face! We highly recommend Sleeping Beauty as the perfect panto for all the family!
Sleeping Beauty will be at Derby Arena until the 8th January 2022
Running Time: 2 hours 30 minutes - approximate, including any interval(s)
Access - BSL Interpreted, Captioned, Audio-Described and Relaxed Performances available
Car parking charges - £3 (cash or contactless)
COVID - You should wear a face covering unless you are exempt.
Photo credit to - 'Pamela Raith Photography’
