THE stage is set, lines have been learnt and the stars of this year's Bolton pantomime are ready for action — oh yes they are.

The Albert Halls cast donned their colourful costumes and descended on a Bolton shoe shop to give shoppers the chance to try on Cinderella's 'glass slipper' ahead of curtain up on Saturday.

A line-up of would-be princesses clamoured to try on the shoe at Beales, Deansgate, including shoppers Sue Hargreaves, from Chorley, Christine Bell, who lives in Sharples, and the panto's Ugly Sisters, played by Roger Darrock and Stephen Howe.

But as the fairytale goes, there is just one foot that is the perfect fit for the dainty shoe — Cinderella's, being played by Lucia Matisse.

A self-confessed shoe-lover — be it a glass slipper, high heel or comfy boot — the much-loved fairytale princess is the perfect role for the Nottingham-born actress.

She said: "Oh my gosh, yes, I love shoes.

"I love stilettos but if I'm having a chilled day, I like a good pair of boots.

"I love designer shoes but I like to find a good bargain as well."

Ms Matisse, who played the princess in the Albert Halls’ production of Aladdin in 2010, is taking to the stage as Cinderella for the first time.

She said: "I loved Disney when I was growing up.

"All the kids think I am like a Disney Princess because my hair's so long.

"I've had nine inches cut off it actually, it used to be almost to my knees.

"It grows really quickly because I eat a lot of spinach."

Every princess needs a Prince Charming and international singing star Aston Dobson, a member of operatic group The Twelve Tenors, is just the man for the job.

He said: "I think we're ready.

"By Sunday afternoon, the music and everything was set.

"I'm ready to start.

"Getting in costume gives you an idea of the character more.

"For a start, this sort of outfit changes my posture. It gets you in character."

As well as popular Bolton entertainer Stu Francis making a welcome return as Buttons, there is a comedy pairing in the form of Mr Darrock and Mr Howe, as Ugly Sisters Kylie and Madonna.

Mr Darrock said: "We make all our own costumes, it takes months.

"We travel around and get things for the costumes, we buy a few yards and put it in storage."

Mr Howe said: "I don't like putting on the tights so I do it first to get it out of the way.

"Once I have got the tights on, I start the make-up.

"You have to put the eyelashes on absolutely straight first time.

"If you do change them during the show, they never go on right."

Mr Darrock added: "I put the shoes on last because they always kill you."

Cinderella is on at The Albert Halls, Bolton, from Saturday to Sunday, January 4.

For tickets, visit alberthalls-bolton.co.uk or telephone the box office on 01204 334400.