Mother Goose

I was delighted to be asked to review BTC’s pantomime this year, which started with a bang, then into a good opening chorus, with the ensemble showing energy and enthusiasm.

The set worked well, despite some problems which arose as described by the Director, it was colourful and slightly fantasy-like, but all the changes were swift, which kept the pace going throughout, and Priscilla’s ‘skin’ was awesome – definitely worth the expense.

I liked the choice of music, which was all sung very well by principals and ensemble, it alternated between more traditional numbers and some newer ones, with some lovely harmonies, so well done to the MD and cast.

The choreography showed that thought had been given to the varying abilities of the cast, and the Jason Kids were charming, as were the junior Society members.  Lovely to see them all so obviously enjoying and investing in their performances.

Costumes were colourful and looked fresh, there were a couple of ball gowns I wasn’t too sure about, and Jill’s skirts needed attention (uneven hems and lace hitched up one side!), but otherwise good.  The Dame’s contrasting costumes and personas were excellent.

I was told that Mother Goose (Andie Kirtley) was losing his voice, but he coped really well, gave a full-on Dame’s performance and managed to sing his solo with great expression – very poignant, and his transformations were well-managed.

Demon Discord (Luke Ricketts) was a slimy villain, I loved his rock-type numbers, which were well-sung.

Fairy Starlight (Macy-Leigh Birleson) was both feisty and ethereal, and her songs were very nicely sung.  I am told this was Macy-Leigh’s first time in a principal role, I wouldn’t have known, she acquitted herself very well.

Jack (Maria Kleanthos) and Muffet (Christine Swindell) created a fun partnership, both singing and moving with ease and expression.   Colin (Mollie Brown) and Jill (Olivia Dyson) also gave us a believable and well-performed partnership, which I enjoyed very much.  I liked the silliness of the synchronised thigh slapping!

Bubble (Elaine Miller) and Squeak (Louise Kirtley) as the Squire’s henchmen were very funny and kept their ridiculous sides going all the time, creating some amusing moments.  I loved the slapstick scene with the Dame, they all interacted really well, it was extremely funny.

The Squire (Regan Hughes-Franklin) as always is a slightly comedic figure, which Regan accomplished well, reacting nicely to all the slights delivered to him!

Priscilla (Mark Williams) coped very well with what appeared to be a top heavy ‘skin’, giving it character and emotion, which is an achievement with an inanimate object!

Rambo (Charlie Green) a very animated dog, gave the part every bit of his lively personality, and it was nice to see him also participate in some of the chorus numbers too.

The ensemble, dancers and juniors all interacted well with each other and the principals, which gave the production a spirited feel.  I liked the use of the Jason Kids to dress the Fairy’s number, it lifted it which was good.

All in all a good production which I enjoyed, it is always a pleasure to attend BTC’s productions, where we are made to feel very welcome, thank you so much for your hospitality which is appreciated.

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