Tue 19 Sep 2023

This year’s iconic Rock ‘n’ Roll panto sees the welcome return of Aminita Francis, Adam Keast, Rebecca Levy and Ben Welch in Cinderella, at the Liverpool Everyman from 17 November to 20 January.

Panto favourite Adam joins for his 21st Everyman show, with Aminita, Rebecca and Ben returning after appearing in last year’s Red Riding Hood. All four have been seen on Liverpool stages since, with Aminita Francis in ATC’s Family Tree at the Everyman; Adam Keast in Two of Us! and Rebecca Levy in The Vernon Girls, both at Liverpool’s Royal Court; and Dame Ben Welch entertaining audiences for Eurovision celebrations at the Everyman. Further casting will be announced.

Cinderella is written by Liverpool writer Luke Barnes, whose many credits include All We Ever Wanted Was Everything at the Bush, Bottleneck at Soho, and shows for the Young Vic, Hampstead Theatre, Leeds Playhouse, Middle Child, Manchester Royal Exchange, the Almeida and Hull Truck. Directing will be James Baker, who previously directed Cherry Jezebel at the Everyman and many award-winning musicals including Little Shop of Horrors, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice and Jerry Springer - The Opera.

Jamie Noar returns as Arranger and Musical Supervisor, having won Best Musical Director at the UK Pantomime Awards 2022 for Robin Hood at the Everyman. Set and Costume Design is by Isla Shaw, who’s created designs for Leicester Curve, The Globe, Bristol Old Vic and children’s shows including The Witches, The Gruffalo and The Cat in the Hat, and Ryan Joseph Stafford returns as Lighting Designer. The theatres’ resident Sound Designer Ian Davies and Costume Supervisor Jacquie Davies once again bring their talents to the panto.

If there’s going to be a Ball, a guaranteed glitter one, then Cinderella has plenty of brilliant dance expertise too; with Karl Newsam Founder and Creative Director of Melt Dance as Choreographer, and Liverpool based actor, dancer and model Kolade T Ladipo as Vogue Consultant.

James Baker, Director of Cinderella said:
“It’s such a gift to be directing this year’s Rock ‘n’ Roll panto at the beautiful Everyman. We’re bringing together an awesomely talented team to ensure this year’s show has heaps of sass, silliness and sparkle but has plenty of love. As a child, Panto was my first experience at the theatre. It holds such a vital and special place in my heart - this will be my love song to this special city and its iconic Panto.”

While you might think you know the story of Cinderella, this is the fairy tale told Everyman style! There will be outlandish and sparkling costumes, plenty of plot twists and surprises, and the show is bursting with rock and pop hits performed by a company of supremely talented actor musicians. Some performances are already sold out, so book soon to be sure of your seats. You can make the most of your panto visit with pre-show Afternoon Teas at selected matinee performances and pre-show dining too, or if you’re coming as a group, you can always throw a panto party! 

As if we couldn’t add any more sparkle to your festive season, Father Christmas himself makes a magical return to the Everyman this year too, with Santa’s Grotto and you can even enjoy Breakfast with Santa! Plus, for the grown-ups, regular visitors DBY Interactive bring their latest Murder Mystery Night, Spare Rib Burlesque & Cabaret celebrate with their Winter Wonderland and there will be plenty of goodies with another Everywoman Makers Market.

Mark Da Vanzo, CEO at Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse said:
“It may still be September, but we’re so excited for Christmas at the Everyman, with the centrepiece of our legendary Rock ‘n’ Roll panto, Santa’s Grotto and a stocking-full of other festive events and activities to enjoy. Our Hope Street venue will be the perfect destination for your celebrations, with family and friends of all ages. We look forward to welcoming you!”