Cinderella: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto – Theatr Clwyd, Mold

Writer: Christian Pattinson

Director: Daniel Lloyd

It is the festive season, and Theatr Clwyd’s Cinderella: Rock ’n’ Roll Panto builds up the excitement to the big day with an absolute riot. From sprinkles of snowfall to splashes from the Super Soaker, this musical comedy emits a distinctly Christmassy Clwydian familiarity.

With a cast who play their own instruments on stage, the tale follows the kind-hearted servant girl Cinderella (Rhianna Goodwin) and her life with her mother, Dame Hettie Hardup (Phylip Harries). Goodwin brings a beautiful innocence to the role and a magical quality that is expected of pantomime. Her vocals are steady, and as a long-suffering heroine, she endures torment from her two step-sisters, who use her kindness for their own cruel desires.

Samantha Hardup (Celia Cruwys-Finnigan) and Ella Hardup (Alice McKenna) deliver sharp wit and strong vocals, their cruelty more comic than cutting, which keeps the energy light without losing the story’s stakes. With songs such as APT by Bruno Mars, the show remains contemporary while offering a playful twist on the classic fairytale.

Cinderella’s best friend Buttons is brought to life with warmth by Robert Wade, whose devotion to Cinderella offers the story its emotional constant. He is the typical panto sidekick, one whose happy ending is often overlooked so the main character can achieve theirs, earning many audible expressions of sympathy from the crowd.

Act One, while enjoyable, takes its time to find its rhythm. The humour is hit-and-miss in parts, especially when the show leans into more obvious punchlines, but the music is infectious and the world-building vibrant. It is in Act Two that the production truly hits its stride. Once the ball enters the frame, the pace accelerates and the ensemble gathers electricity. Among the strongest performances is Steve Simmonds as Dandini, whose sly timing and brief Gene Simmons-inspired transformation offer some of the evening’s biggest delights.

Beside him, Elliot Parchment-Morrison’s Prince Charming is endearing and grounded, playing the role with a gentleness that complements Cinderella perfectly. Magic arrives in the form of Georgina White’s Fairy Godmother, whose vocals soar above the live band while guiding Cinderella towards her fate.

As the ball unfolds and midnight strikes, the panto embraces the genre that defines it. Songs slip seamlessly into the narrative, with guitars, keys and drums played live by the cast, turning the second act into an energetic, glitter-sprinkled crescendo.

The energy of the production is matched by Daniel Lloyd’s direction and Adrian Gee’s set and costume design, which provide an energetic, playful backdrop. By the time the slipper fits, the production has transformed into a spirited celebration. Not only is it immersive, but the crowd interactions make it all the more special.

A playful, warm-hearted panto with an irresistible musical kick, Cinderella: Rock ’n’ Roll Panto delivers a festive night that shines brightest in its latter half.

Runs until 17 Jan 2026