THERE are still some performances left of this year’s Merlin Christmas show, the story of ‘Cinderella’.
Inspired by the traditional Grimm brothers’ tale of ‘Ashputtle’, the girl who slept among the ashes, this is a new re-working of a well-loved festive story. Using workshop improvisation techniques, director Claudia Pepler, enhanced and altered her own adapted script to include lines and ideas offered by the cast themselves. A wealth of original music and lyrics, written and directed by Joseph Church, enhance the romance, joy, drama and humour as the theatre welcomes local audiences for a 10-show run, starting on 5th December.
Both adults and children alike will be delighted to know that familiar favourites, such as a wicked stepmother, ugly sisters and a prince, and of course a magnificent ball at the palace, are all still included in a modern day story of Ella’s quest to save her precious woodland .along with the animals and birds who call it home.
The production is packed with local actors. Frome has a wealth of talent and the Christmas show traditionally brings together actors from the many thespian clubs and groups in the area. In addition, this year’s show features a number of locally-trained dancers and two teams of child-dancers, some as young as just 6 years old, who are students of the Tri.Art Theatre and Dance Academy who are being put through their paces by choreographer, Abi Holmes.
‘Cinderella’ runs until this Saturday, 14th December, at The Merlin Theatre, Frome. Start times and prices vary so please check www.merlintheatre.co.uk for full details and to buy tickets, or phone the box office on 01373 465949.
