A number of schoolchildren performing in a well reviewed winter pantomime have been sharing what it is that they love about the play.

The Cinderella pantomime at Queen’s Theatre, in Billets lane, Hornchurch, features 30 schoolchildren, split into three teams of 10, playing the roles of courtiers and town folk after auditioning in the summer.

Team Pumpkin’s Evie Steele, eight, said: “My favourite character in the show is Dandini because he’s really funny and he’s Italian.

“I really enjoy the megamix at the finale because it has lots of different songs in it, it’s upbeat and I say my line in it. I’d love to be an actress when I grow up.”

For nine-year-old Madison Turner the Ugly Sisters musical number is the highlight of the show.

“My favourite part of the show is when the Ugly Sisters sing “All About That Bass” – it’s really funny. I’ve really enjoyed being part of the show because of everyone cares for each other, no one is mean.”

The Cinderella panto runs until January 14 but there will also relaxed performance aimed at people with an Autism Spectrum Condition, sensory and communication disorders or a learning disability on January 2.

As well as the relaxed performance the theatre will also be hosting a dementia friendly version of the play on January 10.