Once Upon a Crime - The Trial of Goldilocks

Most of us will be familiar with the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears but how many of us have ever considered whether Goldilocks could be guilty of breaking and entering?  She was after all found asleep in Baby Bear’s bed when the family returned from a walk in the woods but would a jury, after hearing all the evidence, find her guilty of such a crime?

This was the theme of this charming play where fairy tale and nursery rhyme characters are called as witnesses and the audience, as the jury, delivers their verdict at the end of the evening. .

We were warmly welcomed and it was good to be able to have a few words with the Director before taking our seats.and having a good look at the excellent set.  This had been very well thought out and constructed.  The Three Bears cottage was downstage left with three rustic looking chairs and a table on which were set three bowls and spoons.  Down a step and at audience level was Baby Bear’s bed where Goldilocks would fall asleep after eating a bowl of porridge. Downstage right were the woods, with colourfully painted flowers and centre stage was the court room where the trial would take place.

All the characters were beautifully costumed and really lived their parts. Eve-Marie Downey was obviously really enjoying being Baby Bear with Jack Downey as Mummy Bear and Kevin Gallagher as Papa Bear.  Chrissie Waites and Becks Vincent were Hansel and Gretel and I Ioved their German accents which were kept up throughout. 

Jessica Foster was absolutely hilarious as the Cow but not very happy with Jack, played by Ginny Elliston, for taking her to market. There were so many colourful characters and all the actors had developed their own personality, making the whole thing very realistic and what’s more, believable!

Adam Thompson was great as a gum chewing Wolf with shades and a convincing American drawl, and I’d be surprised if Steve Perry as Tom Thumb and playing the Prosecuting Council, hadn’t got a few bruises by the end of the run!  Jaki Newman is certainly a versatile actress and I loved her interpretation of Henny Penny, Counsel for the Defence.  Little Red was well played by Ruby-May Gladstone with Lucy-Jo Gladstone as her rather confused Granny.

The star of the show has to be Gem Colton as Goldilocks.  I lost count of how many times she had to re-enact breaking a chair, eating a bowl of porridge and trying out the beds, two of which were behind the scenes, before settling on Baby Bear’s one.  I felt quite exhausted just watching her.  Very well done.

Last but by no means least were Steve Foster as Judge Farmer and Dot Sharp as Old Mother Hubbard playing the Bailiff.

It’s not often I mention all cast members by name but I think everyone in this lovely production deserves praise for their imaginative performance.  What’s more they all looked as though they were really enjoying themselves.

This was a lovely play for all ages.  The company has certainly set the bar high for future family entertainment.

Congratulations to all involved. Thank you for your hospitality and for a very enjoyable evening

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