There’s no question that Cinderella is the most glamorous, lavish & lol funny production to open at the London Palladium during my 20 year reviewing career.
This outrageous campfest has stunning costumes, big illusions, variety, glamour & is riddled with innuendo and camp old nonsense.
This outrageously decadent production, by Qdos, embodies the true glory of panto.
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With sensational drive from Julian Clary’s acid tongue (& costumes) as Dandini, you can’t fail to be impressed by his relentless ability to make filth cuddly. His levitating chopper in the second half has to be seen to be believed!
Add in Paul O’Grady’s hysterical displeasure at having to be there (who mostly shines in act 2) – and you’ve got a comedy master-class.
The costumes are nothing short of sensational, the lighting and sound is second to none and the polish of the set, dancers, energy & overall show is divine.
This 5* panto offers 2017 entertainment with traditional schtick for all the family. There’s certainly more laughs than any other show I’ve ever seen in London.
Book Tickets HERE! Cinderella until Jan 14th & Dick Whittington next Christmas.
Nods also to Paul Zerdin who has just returned from Vegas after winning America’s Got Talent. He’s utterly charming, and Sam (his puppet stooge) immediately stole the hearts of the entire audience.
His classic lip-sync bit with a couple from the audience got the biggest laughs of the night. A pro.
Amanda Holden looked delicious as Fairy Godmother although struggled to cut through, however, Lee Mead & Natasha J Barnes were leagues above the rest with stunning vocals as the romantic leads. Perfect casting.
There were moments of true theatrical beauty in this show. Matched with the spectacle, lighting and music it truly is a master-class in Live variety & entertainment.
My only slight criticism is that sometimes you can give too much….
This show was 30 minutes too long due to crowbarring in the stunning talents booked to appear.
Nigel Havers played up to this beautifully although Count Arthur Strong appeared (throughout) to have walked in from a homeless shelter by mistake. Sadly the ugly sisters fell flat and felt superfluous.
After seeing Cinderella at the London Palladium, every other panto in the country will look like an amateur production. This has set a new standard!
The finale was remarkable. You can see your money in front of your eyes. A true masterpiece.
The good news is that Qdos will send this show to Birmingham next year and they will entertain the capital for at least 2 more Christmas’ at the Palladium.
For Christmas 2017/2018 Qdos are back with ‘Dick Whittington’. Cast to be announce.
Review by Alex Belfield for Celebrity Radio 10th Jan 2017.
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