‘Cinderella’ fun for young

Press, 11 December 1981, Page 4

‘Cinderella’ fun for young

“Cinderella,” by Roger Hall, directed by Simon Hill and Janet Jamieson for the Riccarton Players, at the Wharenui School Hall. December 9 to 15. Running time: 6.30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Reviewed by Gerrit Bahlman.

Roger Hall’s “Cinderella" is a New Zealand Christmas pantomime, with all the standard elements that make it fun for the young: plenty of corn, songs, and variety?to satisfy even the most cantankerous young critic. What the show lacks in polish it makes up for in enthusiasm. The audience of predominantly primary school children were well entertained and gave vent to their heartfelt concern that the overweight royal personage (Doug Clarke), should not continue to gorge himself in their presence. The,, king’s son, the Prince Morris (because he is a minor) was

played by Terry Upston. He, poor fellow, is speechless, a sure recipe for a happy-ever-after ending.

Unfortunately, Stephanie Liebert as Cinderella charms him into speech, but not without being thwarted at every turn. Poor Cinders has to contend with not only two ugly step-sisters and a sleepy step-mother (Pearl Carpenter), but also the Bad Fairy (Vivienne ; Thomas) whose exit line: “I can’t stand any more of this! Watch out, Sleepy Beauty. Here I come!” gives us more than fair warning. The two most effective performances bf the evening were given by Michelle Johnson and Alison Bell-Allen as the Ugly Sisters. Their energy and 'comic determination were, much enjoyed. The roles. of Birhble and Bumble, two royal,servants, played by Nic ’Ferra and Martin Phelan, were vital in

terms of the. pantomime’s continuity and were handled with restrained enthusiasm that promises growth in confidence as the season progresses. The Good Fairy was played by Annette Reinheimer with the necessary effective light contrast to her evil partner. Dobbin, a favourite fourlegged member of any serious panto, was carried on by Alexa Stewart and Alisdair Kincdid. Other' members of the company are, Richard Capstick? Tracey .Jury" Susan Faoagali,,: Dyan Gibson, Wendy- 'Gibson,;.'' Trish Maloney, Diane ? Saunders, Caroline , Shaw, and Cherie Sullivan.- • • \ The ; . although ‘simple, used' some effective' devices. ■ The costumes and lighting were notable aiidthe use of music and dance was ambitious.