Ay Up Me Ducks!  Yes, it’s that time of year when local lad Jonny Wilkes gets to tread the boards at Stoke's Regent Theatre. This year he's performing in the venue's festive offering, Cinderella, meaning that Christmas has truly begun in the Potteries.

2025 marks Jonny's 21st year playing the lead role of Buttons - a sweet hapless character so in love with Cinders.

Cinderella is the perfect Christmas pantomime to see with the whole family. It's full of glitz and charm with a comical sinister sideline and, as expected from Jonny, lots of local quips and antics. This is what makes the Regent Panto so special - the familiar references and hilarious anecdotes which the audience love. 

This year’s production once again pulls out all the stops with a wonderful cast, fabulous costumes, original and well know tunes, vibrant choreography and a magical stage set. As usual there are some surprises that will captivate the children, and plenty of interactive activities to keep the whole audience happy. The Cinderella narrative is known to most and is packed with seasonal joy. Multiple scene changes ensure the show is continually vibrant and sketches such as the Music Man and 12 Days of Christmas remain ever popular.

Jonny also directs this fast-paced panto which has plenty of stand out performances. Kai Owen is very comical in his portrayal of Dandini - it is also Kai’s 10th year in panto at the Regent and it is clear to see how much he enjoys the opportunity to perform in the Potteries. The lovely Rhiane Drummond is magical as the Fairy Godmother and the beautiful Kirsty Ingram is perfectly cast as Cinders - showcasing melodic singing and a delightful stage presence. Dashing Ben Oatley is first-rate as Prince Charming with his wonderful voice and determined character but a really top shout out must go to the ugly sisters - Amanda Couts and Rebecca McKinnis playing Hernia and Verruca Hardup.  Both really do steal the show at times with their horrible antics and meanness towards Cinderella - all delivered with wonderful comic timing and heaps of distasteful (but very funny) rhetoric. 

Cinderella at The Regent is the must-see this Christmas as it bursts with festive charm and sparkle, hilariously funny moments and characteristic local dialogue. A show that is sure to delight the whole family.

Five stars

Reviewed by Carol Lovatt at The Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent on Friday 12 December. Cinderella continues to show at the venue until Sunday 4 January.