大象传媒

Strictly's loss has become Ipswich's gain. The publicity generated by the ever-popular dancing competition has done the Regent no harm, as the attendance appeared to be up on the equivalent performance of Snow White last year.

An unexplained delay meant the audience weren't allowed to their seats until 10 minutes before the scheduled curtain-up. But once the performance began they were treated to the familiar mix of music, slapstick, prop-failures and audience interaction that have become the staple of recent pantomimes at the Regent.

The straight-acting roles of Cinderella and Prince Charming were professionally performed to a high standard by Alison Dormer and Stephen Dean respectively, however the audience will most likely remember the comical antics of Buttons, Baron Hardup and the outrageous Ugly Sisters as the highlights.

Tucker, in his first visit to Ipswich, particularly stood out as the main provider of laughs, and local children Bethany, Emma and Oliver won't forget their time on stage with him.

The Ugly Sisters' costumes have to be seen to be believed. They donned at least six different outfits during the show, including everything from Christmas trees to French fries.

Watts the difference?

Of course, the show couldn't take place without regular references to Strictly and the obligatory EastEnders finale beats, Letitia having spent many years on screen as Sharon Watts.

I felt her participation as the Fairy Godmother was much better than Anita Dobson's starring role last year, as Dobson's appearances were too few and short for a headlining star.

All in all a great afternoon's entertainment.

Cinderella (Alison Dormer) with ponies

If I was to have one criticism, I'm not sure the use of Shetland ponies for such a brief appearance was justified. The ponies didn't seem too comfortable with the music and cheering taking place around them and I can't help but feel that Cinderella's carriage could have easily have been towed by the pantomime horse we saw earlier on.

We now await details of next year's show. Will the organisers be brave enough to recruit another star where an appearance isn't guaranteed until the last minute?