When everything else in 2020 seems to have gone wrong, going to see a festive pantomime can only be right.
And the Attic Theatre and Tread the Board’s touring production of Cinderella is truly the tonic we all need at the end of this year. The small cast of six bring buckets of energy to their outdoor stage so we can all enjoy some socially distanced entertainment.
A ‘Fairy Godmother in training’ schemes to help Prince Charming find true love by holding a ball at Hardup Hall, the home of Cinderella and her step sisters.
Poor Cinders is forced to rip up her invite because she doesn’t own a ball gown. But with the help of her best friend Buttons and a little bit of magic from the Fairy Godmother, Cinderella does go to the ball.
Fathers and husbands may be relieved to know that because of keeping things Covid-secure they won’t be called upon by the two ugly step sisters this year but that doesn’t mean they aren’t dressing to impress and keeping an eye out for a Christmas boy-toy! The Dame – or Dames in this case – always steal the show and Robert Moore and Pete Meredith are no exception to this, bringing Corina and Virona to life with classic slapstick, some big musical numbers and even bigger outfits.
Audience participation is a must for any pantomime – even a socially-distanced one – so be sure to sing along, shout out, and even have a dance!
The performance is peppered with plenty of jokes about lockdown, toilet paper, and even Brexit but the overarching message about being kind to one another is a perfect reminder that we are still all weathering this Coronavirus storm and shouldn’t forget to show some compassion and kindness.
In a year which has seen so many business, charities, and people adapt to the ‘new normal’ the Attic Theatre and Tread the Boards have done the same to ensure they can still bring the joy of the pantomime to people of Warwickshire. So don’t forget to wrap up warm, bring your own chair, and you can even bring your own snacks.
Cinderella is being performed at Wethele Manor until Sunday January 20, Stratford Racecourse from the December 21 to 24, Tiddington Home Guard Club from December 26 to 31, and Binton Social Club on January 2 and 3.
Visit www.theattictheatre.co.uk/cinderella to book tickets.
