Goldilocks & the Three Bears

Stagedoor Theatre Productions

NOTHING kicks off Christmas quite like a traditional pantomime and this seasonal offering was just what I needed to put me in the festive spirit. This one is around the story of Goldilocks, the hungry, sleepy girl and the three bears that lived in the wood. Dame Tilly and her son Billy are struggling to revive a flagging circus until Goldilocks comes across three talented bears. But the evil Mayor has other plans for the cuddly crowd pullers.

Director Chris Anderton put together a fabulous cast and produced a crowd pleasing production. Even the crew get their moment on stage. Packing in plenty of fun, frolics, gags, music and outrageous costumes to boot.

Jessica Barlow was great as the innocent Goldilocks who eventually got her man Billy, played by Graham Cohen. Graham certainly knows how to work an audience and his partnership with his 'mother' Dame Tilly was wonderful. Philip Morris as the Dame was outrageous and his performance reminded me of the late great Les Dawson's Dame.

Robert Peace and Dennis Boudlerstone as the Mayor and sidekick Weasel were bad but in a good way. Plenty of boos and hisses.

Teresa Harper was as glamorous as ever as the Fairy and got the show off to a cracking start. Theresa had also clearly worked the chorus hard too as the dancing was spot on.

The bear costumes were great and Nick Murphy, Alex McClennon and David Rowson as the three bears were spot on and illusion was provided by Master Magician Mark Daniel.

A traditional panto at its best.

By Jason Crompton