Pantomimes are one of the reasons it really is “the most wonderful time of the year.”
Last night, the New Theatre celebrated its 118th birthday in the best way possible – with the most traditional of pantos, Cinderella that ticks all the boxes. With a cast packed with Welsh stars and a few delightful surprises along the way, it was two hours of non-stop laughter, magic, and festive fun.
The show opened with Cardiff’s resident panto legend, Mike Doyle, now playing the baddy for the first time as the villainous Baroness Hardup. His iconic “How you doing, alright?” had the audience in excited, shouting back at him before the story had even begun. It felt strange to boo him after years of cheering him on, but his mischievous grin and comedy timing quickly won us over in his new role.
The set design was a something that impressed this year – glittering, detailed, and cleverly designed with a 3D feel. From the grandeur of the palace to the humble hardup manor where Cinderella and Buttons lived, the transitions were seamless and visually stunning.
Panto is the one event we look forward to every year because the cast always bring the energy and charm to every moment. Gethin Jones was every inch the perfect Prince Charming – suave, funny, and effortlessly classy. He even treated us to a few of his famous Strictly dance moves! Owain Wyn Evans shone as Dandini, bringing camp humour and a show stopping drum performance that left the audience cheering. Hard to believe this was his first time in Panto , but we have the feeling we will be seeing him again in future years.
As Cinderella, Denquar Chupak was every bit the Disney Princess – sweet, graceful, and endlessly likeable. It’s wonderful to see her return to Cardiff. Stephanie Webber as the Fairy Godmother was magical, and her powerful voice added a real sparkle to her performance.
Comedian Jack Ryan made a delightful debut to the Panto family as Buttons. His comedic timing, cheeky grin, and natural charm had the audience roaring with laughter. You’d never guess it was his first panto – he stole every scene he was in and completely won over the audience.
The Ugly Sisters, with their thick Welsh accents and over-the-top cackles, were as hilarious as they were outrageous. Their costumes were as extravagant as their antics, and their dynamic with Mike Doyle gave their dynamic a Hocus Pocus-like vibe that was irresistibly fun.
won’t give away everything that makes this panto so special – some surprises are best experienced firsthand, especially the breathtaking finale of Act 1. That said, there are plenty of standout moments to look forward to. The side-splitting Chinese whispers scene with Mike Doyle, Buttons, and Dandini had the audience in hysterics, while the tongue-twister segment was equally hilarious, drawing gasps of admiration when the cast nailed it and roars of laughter when they didn’t. Another highlight was the delightful woods encounter between Cinderella, Buttons, and Prince Charming, which had everyone laughing out loud.
This Cinderella is a perfect treat for the whole family, with plenty of magic for the kids and just the right amount of cheeky humour to keep the grown-ups entertained. Add in its strong performances and dazzling visuals, and it’s a festive must-see that brings plenty of joy and laughter to this stormy Christmastime.
Catch Cinderella at the New Theatre until 7th January. It’s a show not to be missed – So, hurry along before tickets sell out and make sure that you see Cinderella in her gladrags.
Sat 7 Dec 2024 – Sun 5 Jan 2025
Tickets are available from: Box office: 0343 310 0041
Website: newtheatrecardiff.co.uk
