Goldilocks and the Three Bears

A visit to Lowestoft Players production of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. A new pantomime filled me with anticipation to discover how this local society had managed this exciting enterprise into the pantomime style and transformed this fairytale into a unique form of theatre. I was not disappointed. As I stepped into the busy foyer, I was welcomed enthusiastically and was immediately plunged into a very colourful circus setting bringing the spirit of this spectacle into the auditorium playing music with appropriate hippodrome style.

By definition, every cast member, from the set cast to the ensemble played their parts with enthusiasm and appropriate characterisation. They also created feel good relationships with each other adding to the story. The candy floss children’s ensemble certainly were very entertaining in their performance. I do enjoy the inclusion of children in this genre and their ability to bring a fun time for all.

The direction and production was good and had some original touches to this traditional variety form. The scenery, props and costumes were appropriately used to enhance this fairy tale. I felt the off to find 3 bears song was brilliant, the uv dragon was very impressive, the magic trick was well done, and the tap number (We’re in the Money) showed this skill at it’s best. On a personal note, my favourite dance mode. The scream-o-meter revealing the technician underneath was really amusing and also the fight scene’s rock paper scissors was very funny. The audience had a great deal of the old-fashioned pantomime style, as well as, of course, the standard audience participation number. I was impressed with the dodgem car as a prop and the honey pot scene, if a little long, was apt for the 3 bears storyline.

I would just mention that the spacing of the star act bears caused some of the audience viewing issues, with the cast blocking them. Ad-libbing in this genre is an essential part of the script but take care it is not overdone to confuse the audience. Please check costumes before entering the stage to check they are tidy. However, the choice of songs for this new venture were exactly right for the plot. The story at the beginning was a little complicated but this panto was a success for this unfamiliar old tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears.

I spent a very enjoyable evening with Lowestoft Players. Many thanks for your hospitality and congratulations.

 

 

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