Annual panto receives rave reviews as young performers step up to the mark
Tameside Youth Drama added more than a little shoe shine to their version of Cinderella and if you missed this panto gem, you certainly slipped up.
This Cinders was a scream from start to finish, as a talented young cast delivered dazzling performances, complimented by amazing costumes, special effects, plus plenty of good old traditional panto fun with boos, cheers, songs and slapstick comedy.
Sprinkle in more one liners than a Fairy Godmother could wave her wand at, and the group once again provided a performance that belied their age.
Ugly sisters Gertrude and Grizelda - Harry and Ned - were a remarkable double act, their wit, comic timing and chemistry an absolute joy, and they brought the house down every time they stepped on stage.
It’s fair to say the duo were worth the ticket price alone, but although they could have stolen the show, they didn’t.
Not because they weren’t outstanding, but because all of the key characters stepped up to perform at such a high level and standard, that they were all equally memorable, combining to create an exceptional show, with audience goers commenting it was one of the group’s best ever.
Buttons was delightfully underplayed yet given a cheeky laddish quality by actor George as he visibly grew in confidence, although sadly it wasn’t enough for him to win the hand of Cinderella, the lead part played to perfection by Ava who was on point throughout and a delight.
Fairy Godmother Freya’s timing, rhyming and singing were simply superb.
Hapless Michael was always watchable as Baron Hardup, his awful wife Rubella as Cinderella’s evil stepmother, depicted joyfully by June with an equal measure of vanity and cruelty.
Cue the next double act Bodget and Leggett (Poppy and Evelyn) who exuded energy and confidence, owning their scenes every time they bounded on stage with their great rapport.
There were understated performances which were fittingly suitable for the Prince (Erin) and his/her sidekick Dandini (Freddie) with Xander as Chambers completing the royal line-up, his RP spot on for all those announcements.
A special mention to Tristan who sang two outstanding solos, with all members of the ensemble and dancers playing their part every step of the way in an unforgettable show.
The cast enjoy a special awards night at the end of the performances with this production’s Reporter Award going to Freya, with special recognition awards for Harry and Ned and Tristan. The remaining main cast members all received highly commended awards.
The Directors Award deservedly went to George as Buttons and the Founders’ Award went to Ava as Cinderella.
Congratulations to all involved - including those who work so tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the shows to life.
The production was a fitting tribute to the late Barrie Thorpe, a cornerstone of the youth group for more than 30 years, who sadly passed away last year.
Director Rachel Bunting said: “Our panto this year was a special one, honouring Barrie’s love for pantomime and his legacy.
“His favourite panto was Cinderella - a story of kindness, hope, and transformation, which in many ways mirrors the impact he had on the lives he touched,” she said.
“A fitting tribute to a man who gave so much, and asked for nothing in return.”
The curtain closed with everyone belting out his favourite song Fame.
Rachel added: “As we celebrate 40 years of our group, we’re reminded that his legacy, along with Dennis and Jean Nash (who founded the group), lives on in every rehearsal, every laugh, and every performance.
“Thank you, Barrie, for the magic you brought to our shows. You are missed, remembered, and forever part of our story.”
Tameside Youth Drama perform two shows annually, a pantomime in the new year and a musical in the summer.
The group have recently revealed that their summer musical production will be ‘Into The Woods’, which will be staged from July 9-11.
You can find out more about the group on their Facebook page, plus how children can join and get involved with a limited number of places now available.
Visit https://www.facebook.com/TamesideYouthDramaGroup for full details.
Review by Nigel Skinner
