SOME pantomimes strive to appeal to both adults and children. The Grand Opera House's production is, as usual, aimed fairly and squarely at the young audience.

There's not a lot in the script to detain adults. The jokes are weak and the narrative is rambling. In common with too many other pantos, the production needs tightening and editing as it lumbers towards the three hour mark.

But this Cinderella is a cut above previous Grand Opera House pantos and not without its pleasures, thanks to the glittering designs and a cast who are as comfortable in this show as you can possibly expect. For most, it's the third time they've done this panto - and it shows. They're enjoying themselves and that spills over into the audience. Performances turn a poor script into something altogether more sparkling.

Paul Parris is an unnaturally jovial Buttons, a veritable Jack in the Box unable to keep still for a minute but who instantly draws youngsters into his theatrical conspiracy. Ex-Gladiator Jane Omoroghbe, a newcomer to the production, has a charm and friendliness that makes her a panto natural. I could have done with more of her wand-waving Fairy Godmother.

Ex-Blue Peter presenter Tim Vincent makes more of Dandini, Prince Charming's sidekick, than you could possibly hope and has a mischievous glint in his eye, while Richard Cawley and Richard Westcott are simply the best-dressed Ugly Sisters you can imagine.

* Until January 2. Tickets 0870 606 3595.

Published: 10/12/2004