THERE’S nothing better than going to a panto in your hometown, and with the quaint theatre that Darwen boasts, we were ready for some Christmas fun.

Starting with poor old Cinderella, scrubbing the floorboards of Hardup Hall, there were plenty of boos when wicked stepmother Lady Morticia Tremayne gave her orders.

A great performance from New Yorker – Nell Mooney, whose accent made her stand out from the rest.

Britney and Christina were the Ugly Sisters – not a patch on the real two of course! Although they managed to change into some ridiculous wigs and costumes.

Played in drag by David Kent and Dereck Walker the adults in the audience were just as entertained as the children.

Little girl’s faces were alight when Fairy Godmother, a very pretty Victoria Hope, sprinkled her magic and made Cinderella’s wish come true. Local performers from DAPA deserve a special mention – they were charming to watch, with ballet dancing from start to finish.

Funny-man Buttons, played by William Hazel, kept the majority of the audience going, with his numerous bellboy’s costume changes and comical Michael Jackson performance.

And who can forget the dashing Prince Charming played by David Luke?

And his new bride Cinderella played by Charlotte de Paeztron with a beautiful dance routine and duet, they were both incredible throughout.

PMA productions delivered a great performance and following last year’s Christmas productions, they were asked to return – and now we know why.

*Cinderella, Darwen Library Theatre, various times, until December 24. Box office 01254 706006.