Writer's story of survival and hope behind new adult-only Panto premiering in Liverpool

A new adults-only comedy version of Panto favourite Cinderella is premiering at Liverpool’s Hope Street Theatre this month.

Writer Matt Sheffield has given an outrageous new twist to the classic fairytale with his play Cinderella: After The Prince’s Ball(s), staged over three nights, from November 28 to 30.

After a challenging few years battling addiction, mental health struggles and serious physical injuries, Matt – who studied at Liverpool Uni – has found his voice in comedy, using his unique blend of humour and raw honesty to create laugh-out-loud scripts and inspire others.

His latest work is a raucous no-holds-barred adult show, filled with risqué humour and plenty of surprises, that reimagines what really happens after Cinderella’s magical night at the ball.

“This isn’t your family panto,” says Matt. “It’s a cheeky, irreverent take on the Cinderella story with a cast of characters who are, quite frankly, out of control. We’ve put a lot of heart into this show, our cast is all local talent from the Merseyside area, and I hope the audience has as much fun watching it as we’ve had making it.”

The panto is being produced by Matt’s independent production company, That Bunch Of Weirdos, which he formed earlier this year.

Although it’s a comedy at heart, After The Prince’s Ball(s) also reflects Matt’s personal journey of survival and renewal.

After facing numerous struggles, including a life-changing rugby injury which led to addiction, and a mental health diagnosis, he credits his passion for writing and storytelling as a crucial part of his recovery.

“Writing saved my life,” he says. “It helped me channel my pain and chaos into something that could make people laugh and maybe even think a little differently about the challenges they face.”

Beyond promoting the show, Matt hopes to use the platform writing has given him to reach other people who are battling addiction, mental health issues, or simply feeling stuck. “I want to show people that there’s a way out, that creativity and laughter can be a lifeline. If my story helps even one person feel less alone, it’s worth it,” he adds.