THE biggest pantomime in the land is back in the West Midlands – and it definitely doesn’t disappoint.

Cinderella certainly does go to the ball, as the Birmingham Hippodrome and Qdos Entertainment bring out all stops to provide families with a cracking Christmas evening night out, with an impressive celebrity cast, charming sets, fabulous song and dance routines and bright and colourful costumes.

It marks the first panto outing for Wolverhampton-born Beverley Knight who commands every scene she appears in. She brings star quality to the musical elements of the show – but also proves to be loveable in her role as the Fairy Godmother.

But, for me, comedy actor Matt Slack – who is appearing in his fifth consecutive pantomime at the Hippodrome – is the star of the show. This year he stars as Cinderella’s best friend Buttons and keeps the audience constantly in stitches with singing, dancing, impressions and the odd funny walk!

A favoursite scene of mine is a dance off with Strictly and Hollyoaks star Danny Mac! So popular with Birmingham panto fans, the Hippodrome has already signed him for their 2018/19 show Peter Pan, in the role of Smee.

Completing the cast is soap star and popstar Suzanne Shaw, Strictly Come Dancing heartthrob Danny Mac, funny men the Grumbleweeds and David Dale and Ceri Dupree as the Ugly Sisters – whose array of outfits are not to be missed!

The festive season wouldn’t be the same without a trip to the theatre to watch a pantomime – so join Cinders at the ball, and head to Birmingham Hippodrome. Cinderella runs at the venue until January 28.