APART from husband James, Sarah Reilly, who plays Cinderella in Sale Nomads’ 70th anniversary panto, has two other devoted fans.

They are their children, Tristan, 5, and Francesca, 3.

“It is every child’s dream to have a mummy who plays Cinderella,” said Sarah.

“My parents bought Francesca a Cinderella dress for Christmas which she’ll wear at the show.”

Although she played Linda Trott in last year’s panto and had prominent parts in Sheffield pantos between the ages of 11 and 18, this is Sarah’s first major role.

She is looking forward to the transformation scene when the magic coach appears. It is the handiwork of Steve Morley and Tony Bancroft.

Steve’s wife, Janet, heads the team who make all the costumes including Sarah’s ball gown.

“It is blue like the one in the new film,” she said. “I have to go backstage and change very quickly.

“The children who play the mice are lovely. Two of them are only six.”

The ugly sisters, Wilma and Betty will be played by Stuart Harding and Roberto Lavorini.

“They are nasty but funny, too. When they try to squeeze into my shoe, they are egged on by the Baroness, Anna Sillitoe. She is the real baddy, “ said Sarah.

Her Prince will be played by Laura Brocklebank.

“She has a beautiful voice. We sing two duets – Lavender’s Blue and The One that Got Away.”

Sarah, a solicitor, admits to being 39. “I am hoping they will make me up to look ten years younger,” she joked.

• Cinderella is a Waterside Arts Centre until January 22. It will continue from 13 – 15 January 13 – 15 with weekend matinees.

The show will recommence on January 18 to January 22 with weekend matinees.