A visit to Richmond Theatre for Cinderella feels like stepping straight into a world of sparkle, laughter, and festive magic. This classic story follows a kind young girl who dreams hopefully of a better life, despite being treated poorly by her dreadful stepfamily. With the help of a bright and glamorous Fairy Godmother and her loyal friend Buttons, she finds herself swept into an adventure filled with wonder. The journey from the kitchen to the palace ball is told with joyful humour and playful mischief, and every moment encourages the audience to join in the fun. The production embraces all the traditions of pantomime and turns them into a night out that feels warm, exciting, and perfect for the Christmas season.

The cast shine brilliantly throughout the evening, and each performer brings their own spark to the stage. Helen George as the Fairy Godmother performs enchantingly and guides the story with a gentle confidence that feels both magical and comforting. Her singing is surprisingly impressive, and her rendition of the Glinda inspired piece No One Mourns the Wicked is delivered proudly and delightfully. It fills the theatre with a full, rich sound that makes the audience glow with appreciation.

Charlie Stemp as Buttons is the true heartbeat of the show. He performs lovingly and energetically throughout, and he has a natural talent for keeping the audience completely involved. He acts cheerfully, sings boldly, and dances effortlessly. He is willing to be made a fool of and does so with infectious joy. His comic timing lands perfectly every time, and he plays the audience like a fiddle, making them roar with laughter one moment and melt with affection the next. One of my favourite moments was the dance off between him and Dandini; such excellence displayed by both actors!

Basil Brush brings a wave of nostalgia that sweeps happily across the theatre the moment he appears. His scenes sparkle with cheeky humour, and his famous “Boom Boom!” is greeted with delight every time. One of the truly iconic moments of the night is the tongue-twister scene shared between Basil, Buttons, and the Ugly Sisters. Their playful back-and-forth grows sillier with every line, and the audience shrieks with laughter as they fire their lines faster and faster, trying not to slip up. It becomes one of those moments that will be remembered long after the curtain falls.

The Ugly Sisters make a grand entrance each time they appear, and every arrival is met with mighty boos and loud shouts from the audience, who absolutely revel in the pantomime tradition. They perform wickedly, and the more outrageous they become, the more the audience responds. Their costumes are wonderfully ridiculous, and their attitude is over the top in the best possible way. They give the audience plenty of opportunities to join in, and the reaction grows louder with every scene they’re in.

The direction keeps everything moving briskly and cheerfully. Audience participation is encouraged proudly, and the theatre feels bursting with energy. Jokes are delivered playfully, and the ad-libs feel spontaneous and fresh, which makes the show feel alive in every moment. Some of the choreography is a little simple rather than dynamic and modern like the rest of the show; yet the ensemble perform neatly with a pleasing unity. Their timing is steady, and their movement brings each musical number to life.

The show also features the iconic use of “six seven” in a scene that sends laughter rolling through the theatre. This little comic detail keeps the performance a brilliant mix of modern banter and nostalgic excellence throughout the night. The final quartet is a burst of slapstick silliness that erupts across the stage and leaves the audience howling with laughter. It is messy, chaotic, and absolutely joyous.

The back stage team deserves a huge applause for their contribution to the magic of the evening. The costumes are stunning and look beautiful under the lights. From sparkling gowns to outrageous outfits, every design adds colour and character to the story. The lighting elevates each scene with warm festive tones and bright magical glows. Scene changes are smooth, and the set design supports the story with charm and imagination. From the cosy kitchen to the shimmering ballroom, the stage transforms gracefully and keeps the audience fully absorbed in Cinderella’s world.

The music brings constant energy and lifts the spirit of the show, although some may wish for a few more well known songs. Even so, each number is performed proudly, and the cast give every song their full heart and effort.

Cinderella at Richmond Theatre is a truly joyful night out. It is filled with laughter, nostalgia, sparkle, and heart. Every performer gives their all, and the atmosphere inside the theatre feels warm and welcoming. Children shout excitedly, elders laugh wholeheartedly, and families join together in a shared sense of festive fun. Buttons becomes the hero of the evening, the Fairy Godmother dazzles with her singing, the Ugly Sisters stir up chaos that thrills the audience, and Basil Brush brings classic joy that never fades.

It is easy to recommend this show to anyone searching for the great night out over the Christmas period. Whether you go with family or friends, the experience is guaranteed to leave you smiling. Cinderella at Richmond Theatre is a sparkling celebration of laughter, love, and pantomime magic; it sends you home feeling wonderfully uplifted and eager for more festive cheer!

Review by Laura Whittingham

Cinderella is running at Richmond Theatre until 4th January. You can find out more and book tickets here.

If you like this review of Cinderella you might also like my review for Robin Hood at New Wimbledon Theatre, Beauty and the Beast at Fairfield Halls and Stick Man.