EXPERIENCING the magic of pantomime through the eyes of a five-year-old is, well, a real eye-opener.

Trying to explain that the two 6ft women on stage are actually men and the two male roles are played by women is a tricky one to say the least.

But once the finer details had been ironed out and explanations accepted, it was on with the show.

Starring Anne Charleston, better known as Madge from Neighbours, as the fairy godmother, the production was polished and professional with a talented cast of performers who sang, danced and acted their way through the family favourite to the delight of the packed audience.

The star of the show was Ben Redfern who played an energetic Buttons. With great comic timing, slick dance moves and a cheeky persona, he easily got the biggest cheer of the night. One memorable scene even saw him eating an orange while singing You’ve Got a Friend In Me from Toy Story – an original idea to say the least!

The ugly sisters – Floribunda and Marjorie – played by Richard Pocock and Mark Siney are everything you want in traditional panto dames. Bold, loud and caked in make-up, the pair pouted their way across the stage whether as a Lady Gaga tribute act or harassing a poor chap called Fred in the crowd.

The two females starring in the male roles – Dandini and Prince Charming – were perfectly played by Amy Ross and Sammy Kelly whose vocals were both superb.

Cinderella is on until January 6.

Book tickets at the box office on 01329 231942 or visit fernehamhall.

co.uk.