Worthing Theatre’s decision to stage only one Christmas show this year certainly paid dividends.

Combined resources ensure that this pantomime delivers a fabulous feast of Christmas delight, full of fine singing; comedic capers; colourful costumes and scenery and some inventive tweaking of the classic tale.

Whilst Cinderella’s transition scene is achieved with imaginative staging, pantomime purists will be delighted that tradition is upheld when two Shetland ponies come on drawing the coach.

A strong cast provide a magical evening with Cara Dudgeon leading the way in the title role.

She acts and sings with great assurance whilst Keith and Ben Simmons ensure that laughter is never far away when they are on stage.

Usually the “star names” are no more than token appearances.

But not here. Camilla Dallerup as Fairy Godmother and Matt Evers, Prince Charming, both make major contributions.

Each brings from Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing On Ice respectively their own skills which are carefully integrated into the show. Their paso doble is exquisite.

The Ugly Sisters in the hands of Oliver Gray and Dean Horner are outrageous in both villainy and dresses.

Their re-incarnation as Stress Daly and Claudia Winklepicker for the mock Strictly competition is pure wickedness.

Four stars