antomime and the version of "Cinderella", produced and directed by George Critchley at the Muni Theatre, Colne for PMA Productions in conjunction with Pendle Leisure Trust until 23rd January 2011 was a delight. Everything was wonderful - for starters the costumes (Irene Whitehall), lighting and sound (Neil Dolman), live band (musical direction Malcolm Bennett), Scenery, Script, Backroom staff and Muni Theatre staff were all ace.
Then the actors and dancers - choreography by Karen Heritage - were excellent. Prince Charming (Nick Cochrane - Andy McDonald from Coronation Street) was handsome and Dandini (Sophie-Mae Meeson) was a real principal boy with high boots as well. The Step Mother (Fiona Egan) was scary, the Ugly Sisters (Scott Worsfold - from Gems TV like Fiona - and Adam Borzone) made us all laugh with their slick banter. Cinderella (Ella Vize) was convincing and the Fairy Godmother (Mira Ormala) made everyone believe in magic. Buttons, endearingly played by George Critchley, who wrote the script and directed the show, was very funny indeed.
The dancers came from The East Lancs School of Dance (Rugeley) and though they were all excellent my favourites were the little mice and the Tailor with her snappy routine, scissors and pointe work. However a two-year old in the audience very nearly stole the show by dancing along to all the great songs and dance routines. It was clear he absolutely love the pantomime - a real Billy Elliott in the making who I hope to see on stage one day.
When a fellow member of the audience enjoys the show as much as he did it enhances your own enjoyment in my view. Pantomime is, after all, for children of all ages. Try to go and see this if you possibly can. Lucy B
www.themuni.co.uk
Cinderella runs at the Municipal Hall in Colne until Sunday 23rd January so there is still time to go along and see it. For details of show times and to book tickets, visit their website at
