by John Prince
The warning on the posters for the Fairly Useless Theatre Company’s production of the adult pantomime Sinderz was probably enough to keep some people away from the opening night last weekend – yet the show in its various forms has proved be a huge hit with Hornsea theatre lovers for about a quarter of a century.
Known locally as Hornsea’s “mucky panto”, the script is littered with strong language and very close-to-the-bone humour, it has to be said, but the delivery, timing and enthusiasm of the cast takes your mind (and eyes) away from the rude bits and dips you straight into the genuinely laugh-out-loud performances.
Men in drag, stockings and high heels, and women who aren’t shy of bedroom-related quips and flashing the odd bit of flesh, coupled with quick Northern humour, make Sinderz what it is – a barrel of adult fun upholding decades of end-of-the-pier and working men’s clubs’ comedy traditions.
If it isn’t for you – as they say – stay away…
The cast ranges from ages 18 to 81 so there is plenty of smut for every generation. The musical numbers and choreography are spectacularly articulated to avoid any spillage or splits, and the solo performances are busting out of the stage, reinforcing the breadth of talent we have in our part of the world.
Without revealing too much (that can be left to those on stage), the story is a twist on the traditional story of Cinderella. Dandini, the Ugly Sisters, Buttons and Cinders – or Sinderz – come together for the perfect menage-a-quatre, admirably supported by a thrusting bevvy of singers, dancers and actors who keep up the pace all night long.
Director and writer Rosie Thompson said: “I co-wrote it originally with Mark Fairweather and Jonathan Parker, who are local writers. It was way back in the early 2000s and we’ve edited it massively since then. We’re a collective and there are a lot of writers.
“I play the Fairy Godmother. It’s kind of a slant on the normal Cinders story. Instead of a slipper, she drops, let’s say, a personal item that has all sorts of connotations for trying to find the right person that it will fit.
“It’s based on the traditional story, but with lots of rude jokes and songs and scantily clad females and males. There’s Prince Big Thing who mostly sports a large codpiece!
“Originally, we went to London to see Jim Davison and Charlie Drake do Cinders and it was a normal pantomime but with disgusting language. I thought, there’s got to be a better way of doing this.
“We’ve kind of twisted the stories and made it funny. There’s over 20 people in the cast and they’re such brave souls because it takes a lot of guts.
“It’s like Carry On and then some – with attitude. The only warning I’ll give is if you’re easily offended, stay away.”
Natalie Clydesdale, who plays the lead role of Sinderz, said: “There’s a lot of smut, and a lot of wit and humour. It’s just a cracking night of good laughs, really.
“I am probably one of the ones that’s a bit more reserved than everyone else. At first, I found it a little bit uncomfortable, but then you get used to it and everyone’s really supportive. It’s not as if you’re the only one, as the whole cast is doing it.
“It’s 100 per cent for adults, but if you’re looking for a night out and a laugh with your mates, then come and see.
“You can’t ruin a classic like Cinderella, but ours is the modern version for adults.”
Buttons, played by Tom Drodge (whose name has been changed to protect the innocent), said: “It’s an absolute hoot, a real laugh-along and the most requested thing we do.
“People stop us on the street all the time asking when’s the next panto.
“It’s a really great bunch of people. We come together once a year to do the panto, and you’ve got to have a lot of confidence because it’s quite a daring thing to do.
“I interact a lot with the audience, so for me, you’ve got to be ready for anything.”
Phil Wilson, who is part of the writing team and plays one of the Ugly Sisters, said: “The mucky panto has had a few rewrites and has been adapted down the years to fit current trends.
“People love it and always ask when it’s on again. We like to keep it fresh. I think most of the dirty jokes come from me!”
A special mention must go to the wardrobe department and costumers Elaine Draper and Cath Addison who have concocted some incredible outfits, from Sinderz’ rags to Dandini’s size 10 heels and stocking combo.
They also had the unenviable task of dressing two oversized Ugly Sisters in wigs and frocks Lily Savage and Les Dawson would be proud of.
A lot of the clothing, Cath said, had come from the Hornsea Lions.
If Sinderz sounds like your cup of tea, then have a peek around the door on October 16-17 for the final two shows on Friday and Saturday nights at Hornsea’s Floral Hall.
Over-18s only!
