one4review | On 20, Aug 2015

Cinder-Ella brings to life the well known story of Cinderella, using beautifully made puppets, and a Grandfather as the narrator. The show begins with the baby Ella, and as her grandfather begins tidying up, the story of Cinderella unfolds.

The stage is pretty gloomy, with the puppets, the Grandfather, the set and props all in shades of grey, with the very occasional and startling pop of colour. Don’t let this put you off though, as it somehow adds to the storytelling and makes the show appear almost film like. The Grandfather uses sign language throughout, and warms up the audience before the show by teaching a few signs, which my three year old has since used.

The show is aimed at children aged 3-7 but would suit older children too. I could imagine this show captivating children as old as twelve. It cannot be described as the most exciting or thrilling of children’s shows, as there is little song, cast or colour, but it was so beautifully made and performed that it doesn’t matter. My three year old certainly enjoyed it, as I imagine all fans of Cinderella will.

 

Reviewed by Claire

Pleasance Courtyard, Pleasance Two. August 21-23