Goldilocks & The Three Bears

Upstagers Theatre production of “Goldilocks & The Three Bears” was panto at its absolute best.  A welcome return to The Kings Hall stage confirms that Upstagers Theatre are firmly doing what they do best – entertaining audiences of all ages.  Having said that, in panto land we’re all “kids” at heart!

The action for this panto – brilliantly written by the directors and producers John Clark & Andrew Hewitt – was set in Dame Dotty Dumplings circus…and so the story unfolded.

Traditional panto humour flowed throughout the piece, brilliantly intertwined with some new (very cleverly thought out) material – which was absolutely hilarious and kept the audience entertained.  I particularly loved the story telling with a series of road signs – absolute genius comedy.

A superb cast of goodies, baddies, cuddly bears and superb dancers filled the stage – with outstanding costumes, wigs and make up in every single scene.

In the title role of Goldilocks, Lois Brook was perfect in the part, falling in love with Silly Billy Dumpling played brilliantly by Joey Wilby.  Joey worked so hard, yet effortlessly, to ensure that you never ever stopped laughing – his mannerisms and cheeky smile were so infectious.  As always, his comedy timing and delivery was brilliant.  You can tell why Goldilocks is in love with him!  Both Lois & Joey have superb singing voices – professional performances from both of them in every single musical number, delivered effortlessly and with ease!

Dame Dotty Dumpling was expertly played by Harry Hodge – his first foray into “damehood”, and what a brilliant job he did.  Dame Dottys costumes and wigs were amazing – a true sight to behold!  Congratulations Harry – you made the part your own and you were brilliant!

In true panto baddie style Helmut von Schtinkenpooper was booed and hissed so many times I lost count.  Brilliantly “evily” played by George Scaife he looked fantastic in his deliciously dark and sparkly ringmasters costume.

Katherine Griffiths was stunning as Krystal Ballz…the “fairy godmother” type role…the “goody” of the piece.  Excellent diction and delivery of lines kept the story flowing throughout, and stunning vocals too!

Great support from Brandon Filler as Baron Wasteland – Goldilocks father, who turned from nasty to nice…and ended up being the “hero” at the end of the show!  Who doesn’t love it when a baddy turns into a goody!

The loveable furry family of bears brought a very cute touch to the stage – Landon Crowther as Daddy bear, Gemma Louise Smith as Mummy bear and Fay Waterhouse as Baby bear all looked brilliant in their costumes (I loved that the costumes were reminiscent from Wind in the Willows, rather than being in a “bear suit”) – with stunning make up.  The whole audience fell in love with you!

With a total cast of nearly 80 people (the Pawsome and Bearilliant support actors, Juniors, Inters and Tinies were in 2 teams) the stage was constantly brimming with talent and enthusiasm.  Upstagers Theatre should bottle it and sell it!

Superb set, props, lighting, sound and special effects all added to this wholly professional production.  Special mention must go to John Trenouth for the brilliantly entertaining sound effects, which even kept Silly Billy and Dame Dotty on their toes!

MD Phil Walsh had his house band (The Rolled Oats) firmly under control, and the musical numbers just kept rolling on…and on…and on.  Each one delivered with punch and beat – a superb sound, which didn’t drown out the action on stage.  A fabulous choice of musical numbers.

The choreography by Laura Williams was excellent – seamless transitions from team to team as they exited/entered the stage, effortless moves from all of the dancers and principles alike.

John, Andrew, Phil & Laura – you have once again brought an amazing production to life and made many people laugh and smile this week.  Be very proud of this talented group of people you have bringing your vision to the stage.

There is an enormous team of people who have contributed to Upstagers Theatre panto, and each and every one of you should be congratulated on the continued work that you do – thank you all for keeping (amateur) theatre alive.

 

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