Cinderella continues to sparkle – rave reviews hail a festive triumph at Bournemouth Pavilion
News 17 December 2025
News Story
Following a spectacular first week of performances, Cinderella pantomime at Bournemouth Pavilion has continued to charm audiences and critics alike, with a new wave of glowing reviews celebrating the production’s humour, heart, and festive magic.
Following a spectacular first week of performances, Cinderella at Bournemouth Pavilion has firmly established itself as one of the standout pantomimes of the festive season, delighting audiences and critics alike with its polish, warmth and theatrical excellence.
Audiences, including families, schools and theatre-goers from across the region, have been flocking to the Pavilion, with overwhelming praise for the production’s exceptional values and traditional panto spirit. From the dazzling costumes and high-energy choreography to the strength of the performances and the show’s confident storytelling, Cinderella is being celebrated as a festive experience delivered with real craft and flair.
“The show has it all – a great storyline with a few twists thrown in, a strong cast , impressive sets, flamboyant costumes, impeccable vocals and clean choreography, and of course, plenty of witty jokes.”
BH Living
“Exactly what you’d had hoped for from a festive family night out – big laughs, dazzling costumes, catchy musical numbers and enough audience participation to keep everyone happy from toddlers to grandparents entertained.”
Blackmore Vale Magazine
“Brimming with glitter, giggles, and jaw-dropping moments, this truly is Bournemouth’s ultimate family pantomime – where fairytale dreams sparkle into life. From the dazzling ballroom scenes to the enchanting midnight transformation, every second is filled with wonder. Dreams really do come true at the Pavilion this year!”
BCP Mumbler
“Super fun, full of sparkle, and packed with those laugh-out-loud moments that get both the kids and us grown-ups giggling in equal measure.”
Everything Mummy
The cast continues to receive exceptional acclaim, anchored by a series of standout, crowd-pleasing performances that have quickly become highlights of the production. Melanie Walters (BBC’s Gavin & Stacey) brings “warmth, sparkle and genuine emotional depth” to the role of the Fairy Godmother, enchanting audiences with a performance that balances magical mischief with heartfelt charm, and earning some of the loudest applause of the night.
In the title role, Olivia Birchenough (Channel 5’s Milkshake!) “shines with confidence and charisma, delivering a bright, engaging performance” that places Cinderella firmly at the heart of the story. Her stage presence, vocal strength and infectious energy have resonated strongly with audiences of all ages, making her a compelling and relatable leading lady.
Noel Brodie continues to win hearts night after night as a “warm, lovable and perfectly pitched Buttons”, bringing humour, sincerity and effortless audience connection to the role. Completing the line-up, comedy duo Jamie Morris and Tarot Joseph – The Fabulous Sisters – have been repeatedly singled out for their “razor-sharp timing, lightning-fast wit and fearless commitment to classic panto comedy”, delivering scene-stealing moments that send laughter rippling through the auditorium and cement their status as true panto crowd favourites.
With word of mouth growing fast, reviews continuing to build and fewer than 30 performances remaining, demand for tickets is increasing. Prices start from just £19 for selected performances, and early booking is strongly advised to secure the best available seats.
From the iconic transformation scene to the joy-filled final bow, Cinderella continues to deliver a magical, high-quality theatrical experience, perfect for families, friends and fairytale fans of all ages.
From curtain-up to final applause, Cinderella at Bournemouth Pavilion promises pure festive magic. Performances run through to Sunday 4 January 2026, with tickets available at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk or from the box office.
Group rates remain available for bookings of 10+, 20+ and 30+, making it the perfect choice for families and friends looking to enjoy festive theatre together and save. Concessions for under-16s are also available on selected performances.
Written by acclaimed pantomime master Jon Monie and produced by panto powerhouse UK Productions, Cinderella brings this beloved rags-to-riches fairytale vividly to life on the Pavilion stage.
More information about Bournemouth Pavilion is available at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk, with further details about UK Productions Ltd at ukproductions.co.uk.


