Nomads Cinderella - traditional and up-to-the-minute (From Northwich Guardian)

Nomads Cinderella - traditional and up-to-the-minute

10:36am Monday 16th January 2012 in Theatre & arts By Julia Taylor

The Ugly Sisters

SALE Nomads’ Cinderella written by their own Justin Morley, is a must for all ages. Although his version is child-friendly, above-their-heads jokes are appreciated by adults.

Alice Gregr’s Cinderella is full of zest, and Laura Floyd’s Prince does more than just slap her thighs. Laura works well with Jenny Hollinshead’s Dandini. They sing some wonderful duets.

It’s great to see Derek Stuart-Cole, usually the dame, appear as a totally mad Dolce, a vain and self-centred ugly sister accompanied by his equally spoilt sibling, Gabbana, (Joe Cramsie). They are a truly ugly pair, despite, or may be because of, a changing array of costumes.

Co-directed by Neil McDonald and Justin Morley, the show has impressive special effects. The appearance of Cinderella’s coach is an example. In one scene, ultra violet lights spotlight the dancers in a sinister way. Expertly choreographed by Diane Douglas, Muriel Spavin and Sue Harris, both adult and child dancers are delightful. Although a traditional panto, Cinderella isn’t old-fashioned. Much of the music for which co-director and writer Justin Morley, is also responsible, is up-to-the-minute pop played by a live band. Grainne Wiggin is outstanding as the haughty, sarcastic black-clad step mother everyone loves to hate.

My companion, Harry, aged six said: “I really really liked it when the ugly sister wore a false leg and the step mother said, ‘the shoe fits’!”

His brother, Max, aged four, enjoyed singing It’s all about You with other children on stage.

• Cinderella is at the Waterside Arts Centre until January 22. Anyone interested in booking tickets should call 0161 969 5140.

• Star rating: * * * *