Wanstead and Woodford Guardian - January 15 2004
Review by Phyl Romeril
This was WOADS 43rd pantomime and although it did not sell out for the performance I saw, there was plenty of enthusiastic appreciation from the audience, and I was assured that ticket sales were on a par with last years. In my opinion Cinderella had all the ingredients for maintaining a top position. A further asset for its success was James Adler. He had not played in panto for some 10 years being busy in many other directions, but he played Buttons with such versatility and warmth that, along with his happy personality, he held us firmly in the palm of his hand and had the audience crying out for more. They simply loved him.
Likewise, Bernie Pavely and Steve Liversedge, both of whom have served WOADS in many different guises, and their Ugly Sisters were excruciatingly funny with knock-about comedy and the usual corny jokes. These three characters never let up for one moment. Jennie Smith and Vikki Lyons paired together as the Prince and Cinderella, the latter a spirited drudge and the former profiled the traditional thigh-slapping handsome suitor. The show had a pulsating vibrance that occasionally overwhelmed our ears, but it was colourful, spectacular and akin to a full-scale musical show whilst reflecting pantomime.
The arrival and departure of Cinderella’s coach transported more than just the children to fairyland, captivating us all. The musical numbers, of which there was an abundance, the ballet work and of course the intriguing laser(UV) scene were quality, leaving an indelible reminder that WOADS 43rd pantomime was something special.
Greg Cross directed, while James Adler handled musical direction. Rachel Cross and Kelly Chinery were responsible for the choreography. Walter Wright wrote the script and I guess some of the ad-libbing was spontaneous. WOADS plan to perform The Wizard of Oz in January 2005.