Cinderella | Venue Cymru

Whilst many theatres are now opting to modernise the timeless tradition of a pantomime, Venue Cymru’s Cinderella proudly embraces the traditional style, staying close to the well-loved original story that audiences know so well. This is a pantomime that thrives through its audience participation, slapstick comedy, and the usual pantomime tropes that undoubtedly appeal to families over the festive season. Supported by a dazzling and visually pleasing production and a star-studded cast, Cinderella brings the necessary festive cheer to North Wales this Christmas.

Tam Ryan has created a script catering for a younger audience with plenty of nods to social media and current trends and ensuring that the humour is accessible and easy to follow. However, apart from the occasional joke regarding local towns, the humour remains safe and predictable, occasionally missing the more layered comedy that often gives pantomime its cross-generational appeal.

That being said, the production truly shines in the musical numbers, where unlike the majority of pantomimes, the songs actually serve their purpose and fit the narrative and characters. Of course, it wouldn't be panto without K-Pop hit Golden as a finale number, but it's refreshing to see songs from other genres to delight viewers young and old. The Twelve Days of Christmas proves to be one of the show’s standout moments. This sequence is hilariously staged, escalating in chaos and energy as the song progresses. The timing, physical comedy, and audience reactions combine to create a genuinely laugh-out-loud moment that feels joyfully over-the-top, capturing the spirit of pantomime at its best.

However, whilst AJ and Curtis Pritchard are known for dancing rather than singing, it is disappointing to see that Curtis blatantly mimes two songs. Whilst Curtis is confident and enthusiastic in his approach, it's a bizarre choice given that AJ doesn't have the same responsibility and therefore audiences will have appreciated the opportunity for the brothers to just showcase their dance skills as opposed to miming during a live theatre performance.

It's clear that the entire cast are having a ball, with the ensemble being high energy and infectious throughout. Seasoned Venue Cymru panto performers John Evans as Buttons as Simon Nehan as the Fairy Godmother have the audience onside instantaneously. Evans' passion for pantomime is in abundance and shines in every moment he is on the stage. Evans' is wonderful in his quick witted comedic timing, and bounces off his co-stars really well, particularly with Nehan. Nehan is extravagant and flamboyant as this year's dame, partnered up with eccentric costume design.

AJ and Curtis impress with incredible choreography supported by the ensemble. Whilst AJ is charming as the Prince, he is more reserved in his characterisation whereas Curtis appears to fully embrace the chaos of pantomime, and looks like he's enjoying every minute of it. Han and Fran revel in their ABBA numbers, with a hilarious parody of popular restaurant Nandos instead of Fernando. Corrine Cherish's Cinderella is subtle, yet she provides plenty of emotional depth when singing. Her rendition of I'm Not That Girl from Wicked is a particular highlight.

The set design is visually impressive, using traditional cartoonesque backdrops with plenty of glitz. In this version, Cinderella is whisked away to the ball on a mechanical unicorn that flies - which is an impressive act one closer and had plenty of children awestruck.

Overall, Cinderella at Venue Cymru delivers exactly what it promises - a traditional, family-friendly pantomime filled with familiar characters, festive fun, and a few memorable highlights. While it may not push boundaries or offer much for older audiences seeking more sophisticated humour, it succeeds as a cheerful and accessible production that the whole family will thoroughly enjoy.

Cinderella plays at Venue Cymru in Llandudno until 03rd January 2026.

Tickets and More Information

★★★☆☆ (3*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review