Mother Goose

 

It was not until I worked in York almost 30 years ago that I realised how much of an institution was the annual pantomime at the city’s main theatre and so it is to the credit of this Society that over a number of years it has successfully accepted and met the challenge which this provides.  To put it on before the other one opens may be a good move but, that apart, this event seems to be very much a highlight of life in the village.

I attended on what was apparently described as “adult night”, thankfully not because of changes in the content but rather that the usual theatre-style seating had been replaced by a cabaret setting which added to the atmosphere and completely demolished the so-called fourth wall between stage and audience.  But being pantomime this was all in its favour.

The whole thing was well performed by a sizeable cast of characters and a very small chorus. There were even two villains: Demon Night, a devilish Matt Taylor and a money-grabbing Squire Blackheart, played by long-serving member Paul Brook.  The latter had to use all his experience with ad-libs when, alone on stage, his speech was interrupted, almost Andrew Neil style, by a rather noisy smoke alarm. Smoke effects from time to time and some pyrotechnics at the occasional appearances of Spirit Day, a confident performance from young James Flinton, had all been too much for the gadget.  The usual pair of comic characters (Biff and Bash) were well played by Clare Pitchford and Rosie Brook, the latter hiding behind a lovely deadpan expression which successfully concealed her not-quite-so-stupid persona. A visit to Gooseland introduced us to Vince Loach as its King and Lisa Thornton with a dual role as the Queen and an amusing cameo as Madame Fifi. Her French accent provided several laughs, as she attempted to improve Mother Goose’s appearance, aided and abetted by Bobbie Lay-Flurrie, a real-life beautician. Some romantic interest was provided by Anna Lewis, making her debut with the group as Jill, girlfriend of Jack Goose, a role which gave Stephanie Dunn her first experience as Principal Boy, which she handled with great skill. Jo Stamp as Sally the Goose Girl was another likeable character, left in charge of a group of orphans played by the junior chorus, whilst I must not overlook Lisa Beadle’s lively portrayal of Priscilla the Goose.

All of these gave excellent support to two outstanding performers. I enjoyed Sarah Frankland as Silly Billy in which her wide-eyed and smiley expression constantly endeared her character to us all but an even more memorable and accomplished performance came from David Rose in the title role. He is no stranger to the part of the Dame and this was apparent from the start as he entered to applause and immediately struck up a friendly banter with the audience, many of whom were not backward in coming forward as you might say.  Music took the form of some well-known songs with amended lyrics by Paul Brook and David Rose, whilst sound and lighting were both of a very high standard.  The finale saw Bishopthorpe’s first snow fall of the winter and very wet it was too, as some of the audience will testify.

This was my first visit to this Company and its well-appointed venue but, after seeing such a thoroughly enjoyable performance, I hope it will not be my last. 

                                         

                                            

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