Goldilocks & The Three Bears

Cheadle Amateur Theatrical Societies production of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, two years in the writing, was written by Goldilocks herself Victoria R Wood, ably assisted by her Director Jake S. Allsop.

I must say her performance was captivating, great stage presence and energy, lovely trained voice, every subtle little nuance was thoughtful and well delivered.

This was a big cast, a big show, in a Big Top. Great themes introduced in the dialogue about prejudice, acceptance, morality all wrapped up in a witty humour with elements of slapstick to.

Victoria's excellent take on the Three Bears story by introducing a circus element, a rivalry with the Cirque du Eeval run by Dr. Von Volt's, really played the classic panto 'good versus evil' theme.

Also thrown into the mix was another set of performers the outcast camp, a big nod to PT Barnum which also brought Goldilocks a love interest in the form of Durriken son of Isadora with a gift of foresight. Themes of prejudice and acceptance were well developed here and positive messages were very much the subtext.

Good comedy throughout with Goldilocks' brother Curly, Ben Clever; taking lots of tumbles usually at the hand of their mum Dame Pixie Locks, Andrew Farrington; who gave a very seasoned performance, comic timings were spot on.

Additional comedy from circus performers monkey Barnum and Bailey the sealion aided and abetted by strongman Stephen, were very well worked, performed to the music of Orpheus in the Underworld eventually, almost inevitably leading to a cancan with other cast members joining in – very clever.

Good well balanced sound from the PA system, slight issue with Madam Isadora Rose's microphone, possibly battery related, nothing serious though.

The Amazing Ronaldo, Sam Stephens performed some magic to much delight from the audience, very slick.

CATS were the first group I ever saw using UV effectively many years ago, it played a atmospheric part in last nights performace as well - always inventive and fresh.

Great support from the rest of the cast, some well chosen songs, well performed.

Director Jake S Allsop, his first time directing panto did a very creditable job, despite last minute script changes the previous night it certainly didn't show from the stage to the audience.

Goldilocks was a hoot, very entertaining and a thoroughly enjoyable show.

 

 

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