Cinderella at The Malthouse

Cinderella is a well-loved classic and Canterbury Children’s Theare has managed to maintain the spirit of the fairytale, all while flipping the whole story on its head.

Rhiannon McCall steals the stage as Ella, a young woman with dreams of nothing but independence and owning her own line of sensible shoes.  All she wants is a quiet night at home to work in peace, but her stepmother Daphne (Delia Cormack) has other ideas.  Hiring her old friend and stylist, Miranda Merriweather (Emily Stevens) to perform a magical make-over, Daphne sends Ella out the door with her stepsisters (Miranda Hitchings and Victoria Powell) to attend the royal ball.  At the palace, Ella finally decides to stand up for herself, and storms out of the ball to be consoled by her enchanted footman Lewis (Paddy Scott).  It’s here she learns the true extent of Miranda’s villainy and finds a way to realise her dreams.  The story, of course, has a happy ending, with each character getting the “ever after” they deserve, having learnt the importance of being true to who they are.

The entire cast give stellar performances, with Emily Steven’s shallow “fairy godmother” Miranda, and Sebastian Boyle’s vapid Prince Handsome particular stand-outs.

Clever and funny, Matt Powell’s script will appeal to young and old alike.  A children’s play is demanding to perform with success, requiring high energy throughout.  This production triumphs as children’s entertainment.  Cinderella keeps up the pace for its 60 minute running time and with plenty of audience interaction (including a dance number!), this is enjoyable and engaging for those with even the shortest attention spans.

Cinderella runs from the 17^th September to 2 October at The Malthouse, 71 Colombo St.  Performances are 11am and 2pm Saturday and Sunday.  Booking and more information is available on 0800 BOOKINGS or online.  All tickets $7.

Written and Directed by Matt Powell.

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