Neilston Players took to the stage to perform Cinderella in front of their first live audience since 2019.

The group sold out their three weekend shows at Neilston Parish Church, playing to 150 panto-loving people each time. The production was so popular, they even had a reserve list.

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The lead roles were played by two newcomers, with Eastwood High pupil Emily Mullen playing Cinderella and Caitlyn O’Neill, from St Luke’s High, playing the Prince.

Dave Dewhurst, chairman of the Neilston Players, said: “I am so proud of them. They are both 16 years of age and had the two leading parts in the show. Nerves did creep in, but once again whilst on stage they owned it. 

“Emily also did two live songs in the show – how’s that for a debut?”

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He added: “There wasn’t one stand-out star of the show as we all performed to the best of our ability, but I want to point out that the dancers and actors from the McLellan Academy of Arts and Dance were brilliant and the show would not have been as good without them.”

Dave hopes to see the Neilston Players go from strength to strength, securing a dedicated venue for their shows and, eventually, establishing the Neilston Players Juniors.

This year’s panto cost £6,000 and he’s keen to acknowledge and thank the Neilston Windfarm Legacy, who gave them £10,000 in funding for 2022 and 2023.