Who would have thought that Bermuda’s economic downturn, budget cuts and soaring cost-of-living could provoke such hilarity as they did in the local pantomime production of Cinderella?

The classic story, which has been utterly Bermudianised with the help of artistic/technical director Kelvin Hastings-Smith, opened to an invited audience at the Earl Cameron Theatre last Wednesday evening and amused the adults almost as much as the children.

Baron Hardup, of Hardup Hall, the melancholic father of Cinderella and her two ugly sisters, battles Belco’s fuel adjustment rate hike while lamenting his favourite daughter’s dress having more holes than Bermuda’s roads.

Dialogue was king in this Bermuda Musical and Dramatic Society production. It was crystal-clear that Mr Hastings-Smith and a collaborative team of BMDS writers put a great deal of effort into the modern-day script, which was packed with local humour, innuendo and satire.

Marissa Trott, the leading lady, did an excellent job of captivating young hearts, with one primary-aged boy in the audience even declaring, “I want to marry her.” She gave an effortless performance full of grace and tenderness.

Another standout performance came from Marcus Smith, who stole the show with his dynamic presence in the role of Hardup’s servant, Buttons.

Following on from his hilarious performance as Donkey in Gilbert & Sullivan’s recent production of Shrek, this rising star is truly making a name for himself on the local stage.

Kate Farmer had a confident stage presence as Prince Charming’s aid Dandini, while newcomer Rebecca Ausenda made a convincing and loveable Fairy Godmother.

As for the ugly sisters Aphis and Millipede, played by Phillip Jones and Shawn Angiers, they made such a despicable duo they had the children hissing and booing throughout.

While most of the leading roles were played by adults, the young actors in the panto did not disappoint, especially in their choral delivery.

This year’s Christmas panto also boasted an original score by James Burn, which was the cherry on top.

There were only a few backdrops but they were beautifully painted, including one depicting Hamilton Harbour that deserved more stage time with its unmistakable Bermuda feel.

The children in the audience had a blast, as evidenced by their ear-piercing shouts and shrieks throughout the show.

The light-up wands in the shape of a Christmas tree were a hit with the kids ― every time there was any audience participation, there was a sea of waving lights.

Mrs Claus dishing out sweeties during the interval was also a nice touch.

• Cinderella is on stage at the Earl Cameron Theatre from December 7 to 16. Tickets, $40, are available at www.ptix.bm