The Glass Slippers, Hackney Children’s Theatre Review
Tutti Frutti The Glass Slippers Production Photo. Photo by Brian Slater
Written by Jenna for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
A charming and creative reimagining of the classic tale, for children age 3+.
We were welcomed warmly by the team from Tutti Frutti Productions at the old school rooms in Hackney. The colourful set, whilst simple, transports us away from the traditional chateau setting to a beach house by the sea. The bubbly and energetic cast of 3, complete with instruments, begins setting the scene for what promises to be a fun adventure for the children who are seated on the front cushions to enjoy the show.
Cinderella, played by Hope Yolanda, instantly endears us with her infectious smile and the love she has for her simple seaside life with her parents. However things soon change when her Mother sadly dies, and this is dealt with in a sensitive and child-friendly way. Jazz Harbour, who plays Cinderella’s Mum, deals with her almost constant changes of character with ease and it is always clear whom she is playing.
Matthew Nicholson as Dad, Prince and Twin brings his boundless energy to the production, engaging the children right from the start.
The Glass Slippers has all the elements you would expect from a Cinderella story, but with a contemporary twist. The ugly sisters become the spoilt and screen obsessed ‘Twins’, the glass slippers are the latest must-have designer shoes designed by social media star ‘The Prince’ and the pumpkin becomes the name of the family’s boat that transports Cinderella to Prince-Fest. Perhaps my favourite change to the plot is that in place of a Fairy Godmother is the spirit of Cinderella’s late mother, resulting in some genuinely moving scenes between the characters and a suitably magical transformation scene, as a loving mother encourages her daughter to try new things whilst being true to herself. Themes of loss, blended families & and influencer culture are also explored throughout the story, making it relatable to young theatregoers and adults alike.
Simple but creative costume design by Delicia Sorhaindo allows the cast to switch between their characters seamlessly. I must confess to wanting a pair of the blinged-up trainers that are the much sought-after Glass Slippers! The production is enhanced by the cute and catchy songs which are performed well by the cast with some unexpectedly beautiful harmonies. While I felt that there was an opportunity for more comedy and slapstick moments, I wonder if this was kept to a minimum to bring a calming feel to young audience members. The children were certainly entertained and engrossed, and my Cinderella-obsessed 7-year-old throughly enjoyed the production. I loved the message for today’s kids about social media and screens vs being present, appreciating nature and spending time with friends and family.
Overall, the cast and crew have done an excellent job of bringing Emma Reeves’s script to life, telling the story of “a poor lonely girl and a rich lonely boy” in a delightful, fun and child-focused way. At just under an hour’s running time, this charming production would be the perfect way to introduce young children to the theatre, with music, magic and of course, glass slippers.
Tutti Frutti is touring The Glass Slippers across theatres and schools until 24 Dec 2024. You can find further information here.
★★★
