THE most famous fairytale in the world is being turned into a family musical four-day extravaganza to delight all Panto-lovers.
Bring out the men in drag, bring out the puns, bring out the dancers, the singers, the puppets and the magic because Panto is back in Berriew….oh yes it is!
This year the cast of Berriew Music Drama Society are performing their own take of Cinderella (written by Paul Reakes) at the village community centre on December 9, 10, 11 and 12.
Directed by Neil Tuffin and Martin Creaven, with music from Gill Owen, the cast of Berriew promise to bring a new magical life for the popular children’s story.
“This being our first big production without our inspirational leader, Haydn Williams, is a big test, but I am delighted to reveal our cast have really pulled out all the stops and come up with a fantastic Panto for all the family to enjoy,” said Neil.
“I promise you will not be disappointed and I hope to see you there!”
“Everyone involved has put a tremendous amount of work into the production and it is great to see so many local faces taking part, from the usual older crowd right down to the young school kids,” added Martin.
Problems begin in Panto World when Prince Charming (Elinor Bright) is off gallivanting around the world and leaves Pantomania to be governed by the selfish Duke of Verruca (Gareth Phillips), using his nephew Archie (James Broxton) to do his bidding.
When the prince returns the duke refuses to relinquish power, but luckily faithful Buttons (Richard Hughes), his friend Kathy (Bryony Wilson) and of course the Fairy Godmother (Clara Bright) are around to work wonders.
On the way they have to endure the wrath of Baroness Beujoulais (Janet Pritchard) and the two ugly sisters Hattie (Wyn Owen) and Mattie (Tudor Roberts-Watkin).
Playing the part of Cinderella is Gemma Creaven and she can’t wait to get on stage for the first time. This is her first time taking on the lead role at Berriew pantomime and she is really excited about walking into a packed theatre and entertaining the crowds.
“I have had lead roles with Montgomeryshire Youth Theatre productions in the past but, despite making my first appearance in Berriew pantomime as a fairy when I was just four-years-old, this is my first lead role here and I am really excited about it,” she said.
“Ever since walking onto stage as a fairy in our production of Aladdin all those years ago I have absolutely loved drama and am really excited about bringing Cinderella to life this year.”
Elinor Bright, who plays Prince Charming, is also excited about the prospect of performing in this year’s production.
“I’m so excited about getting back on stage. I have always loved pantomime since I saw my first one at a young age. It embraces everything that theatre should be about, it’s relentless fun,” she explained.
But with the world now governed by the nasty Duke of Verruca what is in store for Cinderella and Prince Charming?
Will his highness regain control and more importantly will he find true love? Thankfully for Prince Charming his good friends Buttons, Kathy and the Fairy Godmother are around to help him make sure all is well in the world of pantomime.
“It is up to us to ensure Prince Charming regains control and finds his Cinderella,” said Clara Bright, who plays the Fairy Godmother.
“Making this production has been lots of fun and if the audience can have as much fun watching it as we’ve had making it then they are in for a truly festive treat.”
“Berriew Drama Music Society has produced another all-action pantomime this year under the strict guidance of directors Neil Tuffin and Martin Creaven,” added Richard, who plays Buttons.
“The usual band of suspects are all taking part but it also great to see a few new additions who I have no doubt will soon be entranced in by the world of bright lights and grease paint!”
And, like in any good pantomime, there is a top comedy duo - Nip (Robbie James) and Tuck (Lynne Pritchard) - to provide the audience with bags of laughter, while on top of this there is not one ugly sister but two - Mattie and Hattie. Other stars of the show include Baron Beujourlais (John Thelwell) and Urk (Dai Davies).
So don your ballgowns and glass slippers and take a trip to Berriew Community Centre this Christmas to see Cinderella whisked to the ball in spectacular fashion.
Cinderella runs from Wednesday, December 9 until Sunday, December 12. Tickets can be purchased by calling Elaine Williams at the Box Office on 01686 640478.