Panto Season at The Anvil
I absolutely love going along to see a panto at Christmas. So I was lucky to be invited to see Cinderella at The Anvil in Basingstoke with my husband and our seven year old daughter. We have been to this fabulous theatre before which is run by Anvil Arts, and it is so lovely at this time of year.
Cinderella stars Chris Pizzey (from the CBBC Basil Brush show) as Buttons and the lovely Debbie McGee as The Fairy Godmother. It started on Friday 9th December and runs until Monday 2nd January. There is a professional cast and the show has all the hilarious one-liners and innuendoes that you would expect from a panto.
Christmas at The Anvil
When we entered the theatre, we were taken aback by the stunning stage scenery. And although we have been to the Anvil before, it never fails to be impressive. The show begins with The Fairy Godmother – and Debbie McGee fits the role perfectly. Chris Pizzey as Buttons is as funny as ever – and the pantomime was thoroughly entertaining all the way through.
The ugly sisters (Harmony Hard-Up and Melody – pronounced ‘me-lady’ Hard-Up) were simply brilliant. Played by Nic Gibney and Duncan Burt, the double act had the audience belly laughing with their quick witted jokes and outrageous costume changes. Prince Charming (Joseph Hewlett) and his man servant Dandini (played by Chris Fearn) were the perfect duo. The nice-but-dim Prince and the sharp Dandini duet a parody of the song ‘Common people’ by Pulp – which was just hilarious.
You shall go to the ball
There were some spectacular scenes – as Cinderella (played by Rachel Grundy) transforms into her beautiful ball gown, and the pumpkin and mice transform into a real horse-drawn carriage live on stage. There is all the romance of the fairytale as well as fabulous music and dance – all mixed in with the classic lines of ‘he’s behind you!’ and ‘oh no it’s not!’
There was plenty of audience interaction, professional lighting and sound and pure family entertainment from beginning to end. If you are planning on going to a panto this year, then definitely go and see Cinderella at The Anvil.
What else to expect at The Anvil
The Anvil is situated in the heart of Basingstoke, next to Festival Place shopping centre. There is plenty of parking at Festival Place, and it’s also a great opportunity to do a spot of shopping or go for something to eat at one of the many restaurants. There is also a nearer carpark at The Malls shopping centre.
The Anvil has a bar as well as kiosks to buy snacks and drinks. There are also accessories to take into the show, such as flashing light wands. There is access for wheelchair users and plenty of toilet facilities. It is also equipped with infra-red hearing enhancement systems to use with headsets or portable induction loops. Some performances are relaxed for those with SEND or communication difficulties. These are quieter performances. Find out more online.
- Dates: Friday 9th December 2022 – Monday 2nd January 2023
- Tickets: Available to Book Here
- Box Office: 01256 844244 / box.office@anvilarts.org.uk
- Suitable for all the family
- Venue: The Anvil, Churchill Way East, Basingstoke, Hampshire. RG21 7QR
I was kindly gifted tickets for my family to enjoy the pantomime and give an honest review. All opinions are my own.
