Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Whilst the story of Goldilocks’ and her visit to the three bear’s house is well known to many, having not seen the pantomime version before, I was intrigued to see how the traditional premise of the story could be worked into the genre.  And so I found myself at Sophie Sawdust’s Spectacular Circus where Goldilocks has run away to, trying to escape from her wicked Guardian, Gasper Grey. The lives of the Circus Troupe and Goldilocks’ soon entwine and we have two and a half hours of fun for all the family. Beth Armstrong as Goldilocks gave a strong performance from the outset, assured and confident, she worked well with the Bear Family, showed her strength amongst the dancers and sang beautifully opposite her beau, Matthew Hodsman-Summers, Tommy the Animal Trainer, their Act 2 duet with pleasant harmonies being most pleasing.  Neil Paylor as Dame Sophie Sawdust worked the “circus” audience with ease.  Michelle Carter as Madame Zarina was an unusual “fairy godmother” but developed both sides of her character to great effect.  Thomas Jennings as the dastardly Gasper Grey was a great villain – in response to one of his audience taunts I heard one little boy say “That’s just mean!”   His bumbling side-kicks Swindle (Alfie Thompson) and Filch (Mickey Moran) operated superbly as a double act, their comic timing worked to perfection.  As was that of the jocular clown “Jocko”, played by Ben Greenhough.  This talented young man develops year on year and I particularly enjoyed his “clowning routine” with brush, hat and chair, it was well devised and executed.   Mention as always to the polished teams of dancers who once again complimented the overall pace and panache of the show.  The large senior and junior chorus all developed their own circus characters, and whilst it is great that so many want be involved, at times the number on stage did limit what could be done with the choreography for the whole company.  The song choices throughout were well observed and suited the action, Sophie’s rendition of “Happy” a particular favourite.  As always the show was colourfully and creatively costumed and this complimented the wonderful set design, which once again were fastidiously painted by the talented Jo Clare.  Many, many congratulations on another enjoyable panto. 

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