Cinderella, Derby Theatre Review

Written by Sam

Disclaimer: We were invited to watch this performance in return for an honest review.

This fun adaptation, written by Annie Siddons, is inspired by the classic fairy tale but with a wonderful twist. This new, 21st century version provides the audience with an evening full of laughter but follows the original heart-warming story so you will not be disappointed. The cast is made up of multi-talented actor-musicians who perform live and original music whilst playing multiple characters within the show.

We’re first introduced to Gabriella (Gab) also known as Cinderella (Áine O’Neil-Mason) and her father, Joseph (Nicholas Shaw). They’re dressed in 1840s attire and their family is grieving due to the loss of Gabriella’s mum. Nevertheless, Joseph marries a woman who he believes will help him and Gab heal and be a strong family once again. The new additions to the family are step-mum, Adelaide (Shelley Atkinson) and stepsisters, Lavinia (Roxana Bartle) and Ottilie (Charlotte Rutherford). What a family, they are ghastly but extremely entertaining and let’s not forget fashion icons!

The story is very similar to the original, but I must say, I thought this version was thought through very well. Everything about it felt very Derbyshire including the cast’s accents which were upheld throughout the whole show. I like that Siddons also included Derbyshire dialect in the script. The songs took us on a journey, they were upbeat, moving and fun. I found ‘Rise Up’ sang by Áine O’Neil-Mason and Shelley Atkinson to be the most emotional, it gave me goosebumps.

Traditionally, we’re all used to seeing a bright, chirpy fairy godmother but in this show, we have Shelley Atkinson dressed up as a giant badger named Moritasgus (Morris). This was completely unexpected and had so many of us laughing when Morris appeared on stage. The voice and accent suit the badger. This twist works because the family’s house is situated in the Peak District and Gab loves being surrounded by wildlife.

The casting of the two stepsisters is genius. They both work so well together, and they are polar opposite characters. Ottilie is a goth and extremely passionate about the colour black, death and ravens whereas Lavinia speaks with a posh accent and wants to wear the latest Italian designer clothes and cannot even make a cup of tea. They both want more from life but once Ottilie is aware of Lavinia’s plan, she immediately wants to put a stop to it so Gab/Cinderella can live happily ever after. Again, this is an excellent twist because historically, both sisters have been evil and want Cinderella to suffer.

Next, we have Mr Maddox (Jonathan Markwood), Dorcas (Purvi Parmar) and Micah Maddox (Jason Yeboa). What a trio. Their energy is incredible and again, their characters are all complete opposites, but it works. Mr Maddox is posh, Dorcas is either from Derbyshire or just over the border and Micah is a mix of the two. I knew from the moment I saw Micah appear on stage he would be the perfect Prince Charming. His character is sensible, acknowledges his importance yet he appreciates the joy that nature can bring to oneself. In essence, he’s the perfect match for Gab as they can be woodland wanderers together.

As soon as I walked into the theatre, the set instantly caught my eye. It has been beautifully designed by Kevin Jenkins. It’s simplistic but includes the key focal points within the story, for example, the clock is the centre piece, and it’s surrounded by Christmas trees and painted hills to make us feel like we’re in the Peak District. Once the set for Maddox Hall was revealed, I felt like I was looking at Kedleston Hall – another beauty spot in Derbyshire.

The writing is also extremely clever, it’s witty but sweet and the cast embrace every single minute of it. It was nice to be amongst an audience who laughed at every single opportunity and understood the adult humour.

I have only ever seen three performances where the cast are actor-musicians, and it completely transforms the show. You never stop being amazed by how quickly they change instruments or sing while playing. I really enjoyed this part of the show because I adore live music and I think we should embrace the talents actor-musicians have. This show also incorporates a little bit of beatboxing which was wonderful to listen to. I’d definitely be keen to see this in future performances at Derby Theatre as Jason Yeboa did an excellent job.

This show is one of my favourites of this year. I am very grateful to Derby Theatre for letting us experience the magic of this Christmas production. It’s a show I believe everyone in the area should go and see it because it allows the people of Derbyshire to be proud of their county and what we stand for.