Review: Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Cinderella at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

By Charlotte Ndupuechi.

I think this is when Mayflower Theatre is at its best, when hosting productions of grand scale, and Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Cinderella proved to be a dazzling showcase of artistry, spectacle, and heartfelt storytelling with of course flawless dancing. With detailed costumes, sweeping set changes that made full use of the theatre’s vast stage, and a full-scale orchestra led by conductor Paul Murphy, this was an evening of pure enchantment. 

Set over three acts, this timeless story was brought to life by David Bintley’s choreography. The music from Sergei Prokofiev was beautiful and emotive,  guiding us through the well-loved fairytale with elegance and energy. 

At the heart of it all was Miki Mizutani as Cinderella, her performance full of grace and warmth, making it easy to root for her. A poignant moment early on saw her alone in the kitchen, tenderly holding a photograph and the sparkling silver shoes of her late mother—a beautifully subtle touch that added real emotional weight. Later, in an act of kindness, she gifted those same shoes to a ragged stranger, who, of course, turned out to be her fairy godmother.

The whimsical characters of the playful frogs and mice added a sense of fun, while the ball scene was a real celebration filled with costumes and elegant choreography. Mathias Dingman was commanding as Prince Charming in his search for a bride. 

The two Ugly Sisters, played by Eilis Small and Reina Fuchigami were a great team and my highlight, pushing and shoving each other out of the way and ganging up on poor Cinderella. Their comedic timing, chemistry and sibling rivalry were such fun to watch. Meanwhile, the wicked Stepmother played by Yvette Regueiro, in her striking costumes, maintained an air of meanness without tipping into pantomime territory. 

The production made excellent use of the stage and set, with dancers wearing one shoe, playfully chasing the prince across the front of the curtain and a large mechanical clock came together from opposite ends of the stage, creating a tense and dramatic end to the second act. 

Whether a seasoned ballet enthusiast or a newcomer, this production of Cinderella offered something for everyone. The combination of visuals, music, and storytelling makes it accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience. 

I always enjoy a visit to Mayflower Theatre, with its grand Art Deco setting, warm atmosphere, and attentive staff who help you find your seat or serve you in super quick time at the bar. The venue continues to be a destination for top-tier productions, and Cinderella was no exception.

Tickets for BRB’s Cinderella (Thursday 6– Saturday 8 February 2025) are on sale at mayflower.org.uk or 02380 711811.