Goldilocks and the three bears

A pantomime, based on the original story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, that comes with a delightful twist. 

The self-written script by director Melanie and Patrick Stephen contains all the essential ingredients of a classic panto: “it’s behind you!” moments, “oh no it isn’t!” retorts, sharp one-liner gags, fantastic audience interaction, and even the wonderfully quirky underlying theme of a tap-dancing gorilla.

The show opens with Mystic Madge, played by Jane Griffin, gazing into her crystal ball. Acting as the show’s storyteller, Griffin expertly keeps the audience up to speed with regular updates on the tale so far, from afar. We are soon introduced to the villain of the piece, Victor Vile, played by Chris Hall, alongside his two sidekicks: Bash (the brains of the operation), played by Natalie Higgins, and Bosh (the dim-witted one), played by Sarah Gates. This menacing trio are determined to cause havoc and mayhem throughout the entireity of the show.

Set in the town of Bat-ley, at Dame Betty Boggins’ Big Top, the audience is introduced to the ensemble cast—a lively mix of chorus members, senior dancers, and juniors—through a vibrant and colourful opening number. It is here that we first meet Goldilocks Boggins, played by Jenny Nixon.

We are also introduced to Benny Boggins (Goldilocks’ brother), played by Patrick Stephen, and Gary Grimsbottom, his best friend, played by Cerys Jones. This comedic duo take on the roles of silly billy and principal boy, providing plenty of laughs along the way. It soon becomes clear that Grimsbottom harbours a crush on Goldilocks… but will his love be requited?

At the very heart of Goggins’ Circus lies its greatest treasure — the sensational, show-stopping marvel known far and wide as The Tap Dancing Gorilla. The Big Top’s survival depends upon him… so when disaster strikes and the prized performer suddenly goes missing, panic ripples through Bat-ley! Matters are made infinitely worse when the town’s stern and unyielding Mayoress, Gertrude Grimsbottom played by Clare Rushforth, seizes the moment to raise the rent, threatening to bring the circus crashing down in one merciless stroke.

As Goggins and company scatter far and wide in search of their vanished star, the story introduces a most unexpected trio (as far as traditional pants is concerned), The Three Bears. Daddy Bear, played by Sophie Holroyd, Mummy Bear, played by Hannah Cochrane, and Baby Bear, played by Claire Geddes, soon reveal their mischievous side — making off with Betty Goggins’ life savings, affectionately known as “The Honey Pot.”

With the family’s most precious possession gone and hope hanging by a thread, fate intervenes. Goggins and the circus crew stumble upon the Bears’ woodland home, where the stolen Honey Pot is triumphantly recovered. But all is not lost for our ursine trio — redemption awaits! 

In a twist worthy of any grand pantomime finale, the Three Bears agree to become the circus’s brand-new star attraction, saving the Big Top from closure and sending Victor Vile’s and Grimsbottoms wicked schemes tumbling into ruin.

Love, of course, finds its moment in the spotlight too. Goldilocks discovers her happily ever after, the circus is saved, villains are vanquished, and harmony is restored beneath the glow of the Big Top lights.

In my opinion, the show benefited greatly from thoughtful casting, each performer breathed life into their character, and the inclusion of additional roles added texture and dimension to the traditional tale.

While the adults take on the majority of the principal roles, the production shines in its thoughtful inclusion of the younger cast members. A series of energetic musical numbers, performed by the juniors, are seamlessly woven throughout the show — not only adding charm and vitality but also cleverly masking larger scene changes with flair and precision.

The magic begins even before the curtain rises. From the moment audiences enter the auditorium, they are immersed in the circus atmosphere, welcomed by traditional fairground music and live jugglers who set the tone with lively pre-show entertainment — ensuring that the sense of wonder starts long before the first line is spoken.

A huge well done to everyone working tirelessly behind the scenes — the stage crew, sound and lighting, wardrobe, scenery, props, and the entire production team.

Congratulations on a great show, and Thank you for such an enjoyable evening of Panto!

 

 

 

 

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