What stood out from this Cinderella was firstly the animation of the whole cast. From the first curtain, they emanated confidence and chorus and dancing team were hugely enthusiastic and this radiated into the audience.

We loved Matilde Vieira as Cinderella with her beautiful singing voice and lithe dancing, Alexander Melo partnered her well as the Prince. What a plus having two talented Portuguese in the major roles. Bethany Blakemore as Buttons was the lynchpin who kept the kids involved, participating as the scenes progressed.

Lara Costa made a big splash with her special “Hey, Big Spender” and Andy Arkle amused as a Scottish Baron Hardup, while Angela Theobold was typecast as the Good Fairy.

What an amazing couple were Frank Remiatte and Alan Smith as the Ugly Sisters. These two could have put professionals in the shade. The way they played off each other and took us the audience with them was breathtaking.

Behind this wonderful production is a director who knows her panto onions. Palmas [applause] for Tracey Christiansen for a panto perfect. Hope to see her magic next year.

We are delighted to thank ALGARVEPICTURES for their beautiful professional images of the show - fb.com/algarvepictures

by David Butler Cole