Cinderella

Review by Cal

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The clock has struck midnight and the ball is officially open - and by ball, I mean the annual winter season Chichester Festival Youth Theatre production. The show of choice this year is Cinderella, which is given a new breath of life with strong ensemble work and captivating puppetry.

Writer Philip Wilson followed in the footsteps of those who have previously explored some darker themes within the Cinderella story. What could present a challenge to the younger cast members doesn’t seem to phase them; the light and dark moments are captured impeccably by the whole cast.

The ever changing tone of the performance is enhanced beautifully by Emma Chapman’s lighting design, especially in the hall of mirrors scene which was a standout moment in the show for Dilshad Yilmaz as Cinderella’s Father.

With the vocal potential of a future Christine or Galinda, Annalise Bradbury steps into Cinderella’s sparkly slippers and commands the stage with passion and confidence that immediately warms the hearts in the audience. Her portrayal of a character with an undiscussed understanding of grief and trauma is remarkable.

The use of puppetry is a charming edition to the production. It brings to life the animals that live in Cinderella’s garden, some that she learns she can talk to after her Mothers passing. Her friendship with the birds living in her hazel tree is a joy to witness, as is the comedic timing between the six characters. Free as a Bird was undoubtedly the biggest crowd pleaser in terms of the musical numbers in the show, with the five actors soaring high with their acting and vocal abilities.

This hauntingly beautiful adaptation of Cinderella runs at Chichester Festival Theatre through to December 31st. Cinderella may run from the ball each night but this is your chance to run to it and to witness this magical retelling in all its thrilling theatrically and charming comedic glory.