Panto has returned to the Epstein Theatre in Liverpool. This year’s offering is Cinderella by Regal Entertainment who also have Dick Whittington in St Helens Theatre Royal. This production was under the direction of Kay Nicholson and is fronted by Coronation Street and Hollyoaks actress Katie McGlynn playing the title role. Cinderella lives at home with her two step sisters Mounjaro Hardup (Shania Pain) and Ozempic Hardup (Brenda LaBeau) who are evil and quite frankly horrid to poor Cinderella. On the other side of the town The Prince known as Prince Charming (Micheal Nelson) and his faithful assistant Dandini are looking for a wife for the prince. However, worried people wouldn’t treat him like a normal human being he and dandini swap roles and then they go out to the town to find the bride to be. When Cinderella and the real Prince finally meet it seems to be love at first sight, but the prince forgot one small detail. To ask her for her name. So, to find the love of the prince’s life a Ball is to be thrown in the kingdom and every girl in the land will receive a ticket but no ticket no entry.
Last night’s pantomime was full of surprises and not all of them good. To kick off with the good surprises. The show was in very good hands with Dandini (Conor Barrie) who was always on hand to get the young audiences involved with shouting, singing and dancing. Barrie proved that even when things don’t always go to plan, he was ready with quick quips which made the mistakes look natural. Another star of the show was Fairy Godmother (Leanne Campbell) whose flawless comedy timing and powerful singing vocals really wowed audiences. I even came away thinking she’s wasted in a radio studio. She should be out singing more often. Glynn’s portrayal of Cinderella was heart felt and warming. Her northern charm and character drew us all in. She wasn’t out of place in this production and going forward I would love to see Glynn in a role where the character is deliciously evil. As I believe it would be a true spectacle to witness.
The pantomime was fast paced full of the latest songs and even relevant within its jokes. There were a few mishaps in terms of costume malfunctions that weren’t apart of the show. As well is the pyro randomly going or each side of the stage. Which could have been very dangerous should an actor or performer be too close to it. I felt that the music within the show was overshadowing the actors in terms of volume as there were parts where I couldn’t hear the talent sing because it was too loud or not mixed properly. Along with this the microphone cables were distracting as they were visible due to not being hidden properly.
Out of both the Regal productions I must say I did prefer this one out of the two. It was more relevant in today’s society; it involved the audience more and if I was to return again to see either show it would be Cinderella who gets my vote.
It was really humbling and exciting to see shows at the Epstein Theatre once again. It breathed in new life within the auditorium walls. I really hope it has many more years and even more pantomimes to come. The atmosphere last night was electric. I say bring it on.
Playing until 4th January 2026, https://purchase.epsteintheatre.com/Events
Reviewer: Luke Stephenson
Reviewed: 9th December 2025
North West End UK Rating: