"Think panto on hallucinogenic drugs" — read our review of Ventnor Theatre Group's brilliant Cinderella

The ultra-modern production eschewed the traditional wobbly scenery and instead brought in a giant LED screen that filled the entire backdrop of the Ventnor Winter Gardens stage.

Even the songs were bang up to date, from the latest West End shows Waitress, Six and Everybody's Talking About Jamie, to poptastic hits by Beyonce, Miley Cyrus and Kylie Minogue.

The remix idea was the brainchild of director Joe Plumb, who stretched the boundaries to make it brash, bright and brilliant — but maybe not one for traditionalists.

The cast was fabulous and it was particularly impressive to secure the talents of drag artiste Jacqui Swallows as the Fairy Godmother — imposing on stage in both character and stature.

Ashleigh Hunt-Davis was the perfect mix of sweet and sassy as the modern Cinderella, singing beautifully and showing real comedic talent — especially when worse for wear and not wanting to leave the ball at midnight.

Charlie Merricks got it just right as Prince Charming, Amanda Barnley showed exquisite comic timing as the Queen and Peter Stockman was just cushty as the Del Boy style doting father of Cinders — a role that marked Peter's 100th stage production.

Jasmin Brooks and Hilary Roche were fantastically funny as the hideous stepsisters Beatrice and Eugenie. Bringing bullying into the modern world, the hideous pair specialised in cyberbullying, speaking in hashtags, and taking selfies. The parts were brilliantly acted, and ably supported by Sharon Lock as their cruel mother.

Other twists saw six additional Disney princesses among the cast, and clever tweaks to songs such as Chicago's Cell Block Tango (Spell Block Tango).

It was all very fast-paced and entertaining and got Christmas off to a fantastic start. Well done to all involved.

The theatre group's next production will be Chicago, in May.