Review: Cinderella by Dinnington Operatic Society

The show told the well-loved fairytale of a Cinderella, who is treated as a servant by her stepmother and ugly sisters, before her Fairy Godmother makes it possible for her to meet Prince Charming.

The society brought the fairytale to life with a mix of songs, dance, comedy - and some unusual and clever scenes.

I loved the variety of old and new songs, which had me singing along and tapping my feet, with many of the central characters having impressive singing voices.

Isabel Canning excelled as Cinderella, combining wonderful singing and acting, while her love interest Corey Froggatt, made a perfect Prince Charming.

Johnathan Cobb and John Green were fantastic as the ugly sisters, Beyonce and Rihanna. Their comic timing was superb - and even more impressive was their ability to run around the stage in heels! I loved their scene in the spar with Courtney Smith, superbly cast as Miss Fitt.

Ashley Booker was great as Buttons, connecting with the audience and getting children involved in the show.

Scott Walker impressed as a northern Dandini, brilliant ad-libbing when there was a slight issue with a coat.

Samantha Smedley and Adrian Wilson excelled as Queen and King Charming, while Karen Osman really played up to her role of the evil stepmother Baroness Lucretia Hardup.

Other notable performances came from Laura Wilson and Annie Mikulik as Roise (Button’s love interest) and Daisy, Alan Walker as caring Baron Hardup and Paul Raymond as Herald.

Highlights for me was the fabulous shadow scene as Cinderalla got ready for the ball - a clever idea which was very well executed - and a special appearance by One Direction.

Along with talented dancers from the Julie Turner Stage Academy, including some very young members, it was an evening to remember.

Sam Chetwynd