Cliffs Pantomime A Masterclass

CAN there be any bigger stars on the current panto circuit than Rylan and Ross King – or any with such versatility?
I doubt it. They had the packed Cliffs Pavilion audience eating out their hands from the moment they appeared on stage and will do so, I am sure, until the show ends on January 4.
From the opening scene, where Rylan was introduced by his Mother, they had the audience captivated.
The show started with The Pantomime Kingdom of Southend, a scene which saw Petula Clark’s 1964 hit ‘Downtown’ brilliantly re-worded throughout to encompass Southend, and the audience couldn’t help but sing along.
Rylan, who played the Fairy Godfather and Ross King, who played Buttons, led us through the story of Cinderella with a repertoire of talent from slapstick comedy, singing and dancing. Their ability to interact so well with the audience was outstanding.
The show went with a zing from start to finish, with a modern storyline that didn’t affect this wonderful, classic fairy tale.
There were many hilarious stand out moments including the ‘Dance Off’ between The Fairy Godfather and Buttons, the tongue-twisting shirt scene and the Popmaster Quiz that ended with a Sting in the tail!
One slapstick scene towards the end of the show with The Fairy Godfather, Buttons and the Ugly Sisters needs to be seen to be believed. It was slapstick comedy at its very best.
A special mention must also go to ventriloquist Steve Hewlett who played Baron Hardup. His opening scene with ‘Arthur’ was a laugh a minute, with content that spanned the ages and included audience participation after ‘Arthur’ took a liking to Pauline in the front row!
In the second half of the show, Baron Hardup was joined on stage by audience member Warren from Leigh, in what can only be described as an hilarious comedy routine of banter and dance.
Let’s not forget either, though, the demure Oonagh Cox, who made such an excellent Cinderella, or her dashing Prince Charming played by Djavan Van De Fliert. Their singing of Queen’s ‘Somebody to Love’ was superb.
The Ugly Sisters played by Nic Greenshields (Hernia Hardup) and Ewan Goddard (Verruca Hardup) had the youngsters booing throughout the night at their antics to gain the Prince’s hand in marriage.
Alexander O’Reilly brought some flair to the role of Dandini as he helped the Prince in his search for Cinderella.
Mention should also be made also of the brilliant scenic construction and costumes, which were truly remarkable.
At the end of the show Rylan thanked Director and Choreographer Ash Nottingham for directing the show – and quite rightly so.
Cinderella was the best pantomime I and my guests have ever seen.
This was a Pantomime Masterclass from start to finish.
The show runs until Sunday, January 4.
Review by Michael Guy. Editor of Leigh On Sea News.
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