GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS

WOW !!! What a band… what a cast… what a show… what a pantomime. The programme boasted that this panto was ‘Just right…’ and it certainly was.

You just know when a cast of actors are comfortable ‘in their own skins’ when a certain air of comfort is transferred to their audience; and this was evident last night when this reviewer went to see ‘GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS’ at the Playhouse in Whitley Bay.

This extremely talented group has a lot of experience of how to give its audiences an incredible experience, which was borne out by the children of all ages this side of the proscenium. We were treated to a spectacular full of colour, sparkle, first class music, fabulous costumes, fun, comedy, cracking choreography, circus skills and effects.

The magic of this well-loved Pantomime is undeniable, and the arrival of our larger-than-life furry heroes was just one of those magical moments; greeted by all the right noises from all of us. Leah Ashton as Daddy, Victoria Hemsley as Mammy and Georgia White as Baby Bear were superb in their movements and body language - which left us in no doubt who was delivering the lines – a difficult process to direct (from one who has done so in the past).

The exceptionally strong principal cast; under the direction of Davie and Steven Linsdell-Bell, were all wonderful with Steven himself in the role of the Dame; Sadie Spangle – beautifully and humorously under-played, with fine support from Mark Robinson as a very funny Silly Billy. His quips and one-liners were never ending. Well done. There was more comedy from Ali and Oop; nicely and athletically played by Madeline Ilderton and Lauren Peters-Jones respectively. The love duo of Goldilocks and the thigh-slapping Starbuck were convincingly portrayed and beautifully sung by Jessie Donovan and Sabrina Lyall. Our beautiful good Fairy Katie Brittle and baddie; Henrich Heinkle nastily played by Kell Smurthwaite completed the rest of the supporting players.

They were backed up by an equally impressive cast of chorus, dancers and acrobats who were also extremely competent in their singing, movement and dancing. Congratulations to Julie Cockburn who nailed the choreography once again. Highlights of which were the forest ballet and the circus numbers. I must, at this point, also give a special mention to Emma Deborah-Ward who performed a tremendous arial acrobatic display. Congratulations !.

The wonderful scenery and backcloths by Scenic Projects provided a very colourful backdrop, and were very well stage managed by Jean Hall and her busy crew. Furthermore, the lighting design by Mark Turner of Brightstar and sound plot by Jonathan Mellor of Tyne Audio added to the success of this fine show.

Musical Director Andrew Clarence and his fabulous five-piece band, presented the musical numbers, interludes and interruptions with their undoubted professionality and aplomb. A pleasure to listen to once again.

The equally sumptuous and colourful costumes and makeup by the in-house team, Tom Rolfe Productions and Dress Circle Entertainment also enhanced the visual effect of the show. All in all, a superb night’s entertainment.

Get a ticket for this, you will not be disappointed.

Many thanks for the invitation and the hospitality. We look forward to 2024 and JACK AND THE BEANSTALK..

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