Last night’s performance of ‘Cinderella’ at Hull New Theatre was a delightful experience that enchanted both young and old. My wife, our two daughters, and I were swept away by the vibrant energy and comedic brilliance of this pantomime, a heartwarming tradition in Hull’s festive season.
Neil Hurst, the comic star, shone brightly, weaving the show together with his impeccable timing and wit. His performance resonated with the audience, reminding us of the time-honoured humour we’ve enjoyed in past years with ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ (2022) and ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ (2021). Equally impressive were Peter Peverley and Jack Land Noble as Hernia and Verruca, Cinderella’s two ugly step-sisters. Their performances were a riot, adding a hefty dose of comedy and perfectly timed antics that elevated the show’s hilarity.
The same production company’s signature style was evident, blending a family-friendly script with jokes that had the adults in the room in stitches.
Our daughters were particularly captivated by the show’s silly humour. A standout moment for them was the brilliantly executed comedic scene involving Prince Charming, Cinderella, and Buttons. As Prince Charming and Cinderella serenaded each other in a delightful duet, Buttons, who also harbours feelings for Cinderella, hilariously interrupts and joins in. This leads to a playful and visually amusing tug-of-war, with Buttons and Prince Charming comically dragging each other off the wall, much to the audience’s delight. This scene perfectly encapsulated the pantomime’s ability to blend humour, romance, and a touch of slapstick, creating a memorable moment that resonated especially with the younger viewers.
Equally entertaining was the endearing sing-a-long song at the finale, filled with smart wit and lively interaction. Another highlight was the fast-paced alliterative banter between Buttons and the Ugly Sisters, which, in our performance, led to an unexpected and humorous slip-up, adding to the spontaneity and charm of live theatre.
The visual splendour of the show was undeniable, with an array of stunning costumes that left our girls in awe. ‘All of the different dresses’, as they put it, were a feast for the eyes, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail and creativity of the costume design team.
In all, ‘Cinderella’ at Hull New Theatre is a must-see this festive season. It’s a joyous blend of humour, spectacle, and family fun, perfectly capturing the spirit of Christmas and the magic of British pantomime.
It’s showing almost daily until 7th January and you get tickets at hulltheatres.co.uk
