Cast Announced as Rehearsals Start for Cinderella

With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to think about pantomimes like the Mercury Theatre’s 2014 pantomime, Cinderella.

The panto this year will star some of Mercury’s favourites, along with some new faces. Ignatius Anthony and Tim Freeman return as Cinderella’s two ugly step-sisters, whilst Dale Superville will star as Cinderella’s best friend, Buttons.

As Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother, Laura Curnick, who will also star as Dandini. Laura has come straight from touring her one-woman children’s show Excuse Mrs Pardon, which was a big hit at this year’s Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival.

Basienka Blake will be preparing for boos and hisses aplenty, as she will be playing Cinderella’s wicked step-mother, Evilla. Her theatre credits include Elena in Venezia (Teatro San Gallo, Venice), Juliet in Romeo and Juliet (North American Tour) and Vivien in Dirty Dancing (West End and UK Tour).

Also returning for his second Mercury panto will be Simon Pontin, who will play the dashing Prince Charming. Charlotte Moss will join them, playing the main character Cinderella, in what will be her first Colchester pantomime performance.

Sarah said, “Playing Cinderella is a really exciting experience – she is so strong and characterful and a contemporary heroine in a traditional setting.”

She added, “It’s a really traditional, fun show, full of big songs and dance numbers and it’s an honour to be working with a terrific and talented company. Audiences will find themselves watching a traditional panto, which has been polished, dusted and spruced up; there are definitely some surprises in store!”

Cinderella will be directed by the Mercury Theatre’s Artistic Director, Daniel Buckroyd.

The Mercury Theatre has also introduced a Friends and Family Saver ticket to make a visit to the panto more affordable – book six seats or more on an ‘off-peak’ show in the top price (green) area, you’ll get £3 off per ticket.

Cinderella will play at the Mercury Theatre from Friday, December 5^th to Sunday January 11^th. Tickets start at £10.