The MAD Company's rendition of Cinderella was nothing short of enchanting. With its creative updates, lively cast spanning generations, and immersive performances, it’s no wonder it’s become such a cherished tradition in Liphook.

The blend of classic fairy tale charm with quirky new characters like Dilly, Dally, and the amusingly un-PC King Herbert was a delightful addition to the story.

Cinderella, The MAD Company, Liphook, March 2025.
The Wicked Stepmother and the Ugly Sisters conspire against Cinderella (The MAD Company)

Following the opening number, Buttons, played by the energetic Claire Fewings, bounds on to the stage and proceeds to thread the ‘boy meets girl’ story together. It’s not long before we meet The Baron, his new, very loud wife Baroness Breadline, along with her rather ‘interesting and colourful’ daughters, Mariah and Beyonce, who make poor Cinderella’s life a misery – ‘oh yes they do!’.

With a variety of song and dance routines using familiar tunes taken from stage and screen, we are taken on a journey through romantic and comedic escapades that eventually lead to the love match of Charming and Cinders.

It is heartwarming to see how much effort goes into every aspect of the production, from the sets to the costumes, lighting and choice of songs, truly showcasing the dedication of The MAD Company, led by their musical director Vanessa K Breach.

The performances received rave reviews from all who attended across the five shows, and The MAD Company would like to thank everyone who came along to support this community event.

Contributed

The MAD Company was formed in 1991 by The Methodist Church and was run on a shoestring. The church minister and friends put on their very first production of Cinderella in 1992.

From those first tentative steps on to the stage, at Bohunt School with a small audience, the company has gone on to produce an award-winning pantomime production each year for the village and surrounding area at its new home, The Millennium Centre.