Mother Goose At Derby Arena Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Katy Nettleton
As the holiday season descends upon us, Derby LIVE and Little Wolf Entertainment have gifted Derby with a spellbinding production of “Mother Goose” at the Derby Arena. With some shows already sold out, this pantomime proves to be an unmissable experience, brimming with festive cheer and the timeless traditions that make this genre a cherished part of our holiday celebrations.
Set against the backdrop of the captivating Derby Arena, “Mother Goose” unfolds as a heart warming and laughter-filled journey, capturing the essence of the season and delivering an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.
The storyline, a close adaptation of the traditional Mother Goose tale, weaves a powerful narrative about the true meaning of beauty and happiness. It skilfully explores the age-old lesson that material possessions do not equate to joy, and that love is the ultimate source of fulfilment. This classic theme, delivered with a modern touch, resonates deeply with the audience, making it a compelling and relatable tale for families and individuals alike.
What truly sets “Mother Goose” apart is its impeccable blend of slapstick humour, traditional pantomime vibes, and the classic moments that have become synonymous with this cherished genre. The laughter echoes through the arena as the cast engages in the timeless banter, and the infamous “he’s behind you” moments elicit joyous participation from the audience. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of these comedic elements that, no matter how many times you’ve heard them, they never fail to charm and entertain.
A hallmark of any outstanding pantomime is its ability to involve the audience actively, and “Mother Goose” excels in this regard. From the youngest members to the young-at-heart, everyone is encouraged to participate, dance, and become an integral part of the magical experience unfolding on stage. The interactive elements create an immersive atmosphere, making each performance unique and memorable.
The cast’s stellar performances elevate “Mother Goose” to a theatrical masterpiece. Morgan Brind, portraying the lovable Dame (Mother Goose), is nothing short of brilliance. Her portrayal is enriched by an array of spectacular costumes that bring an extra layer of magic to the production. Todd Boyce as Demon Vanity delivers a villainous performance with a comedic twist, adding a delightful complexity to the character.
Kristian Cunningham’s Benedict strikes the perfect balance of humour and audience engagement, while Djalenga Scott’s Fairy Charity exudes beauty and kindness through poetic lines and enchanting singing. Nicola Martinus-Smith, in the role of Rosemary, brings various acts to life with her beautiful voice, creating moments of pure theatrical magic.
Special mention must be made of Ben Tanner’s portrayal of Shelly Bassey, a “costumed” character whose mannerisms and emotions evoke genuine empathy. The costume design team deserves accolades for their brilliance in bringing Shelly to life, and the audience can’t help but feel a pang of sadness as Shelly’s story unfolds.
The young talents, collectively known as the Scrambled Eggs team, deliver phenomenal performances. Their brilliant dancing and engaging interactions with the cast add an extra layer of charm to the production, showcasing the promising future of theatre.
Adding to the enchantment is the foot-tapping music that permeates the arena. The infectious tunes invite the entire audience to sing along, creating a joyous and celebratory atmosphere. It’s a testament to the brilliance of the musical score that even those unfamiliar with the songs find themselves tapping their feet and humming along.
Undoubtedly, a special mention must be reserved for the remarkable staging of “Mother Goose” at the Derby Arena. While some might perceive the venue as a mere “sports hall,” the transformation of its stage into the centrepiece of a mesmerising and spellbinding night is nothing short of extraordinary.
From the moment the curtains rise, any preconceived notions about the venue vanish, replaced by a breath-taking spectacle that defies expectations. The stage design transcends the limitations of a typical sports hall, turning it into a canvas of depth, colour, and exuberance. The visual feast that unfolds captivates the audience, proving that creativity knows no bounds.
The mastery behind the staging elevates every scene, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for the audience. The seamless transitions and the strategic use of space contribute to the illusion that transports spectators far beyond the confines of the arena.
It is a testament to the ingenuity of the production team that they have transformed a sports hall into a space where imagination knows no bounds. The staging becomes an integral part of the storytelling, adding layers of visual delight to the already captivating performances.
In conclusion, “Mother Goose” at the Derby Arena is a festive delight that transcends generations. It’s a celebration of laughter, love, and the magic that makes the holiday season truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of pantomime or experiencing it for the first time, “Mother Goose” promises an enchanting journey into the heart of Christmas spirit.
Overall, this is 5 out of 5, and a must watch for the whole family. I cannot wait to book next year’s panto Cinderella, as this truly is a production not to be missed for any pantomime lover!
Secure your tickets now for an unmissable holiday experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a heart full of joy.
Mother Goose at Derby Arena is presented by Derby LIVE and Little Wolf Entertainment presents “
Mother Goose is on Until Sun 31 Dec, with some shows already sold out!
Audio Described Performances:
• Sunday 17th December 2023, 12:30pm
• Thursday 28th December 2023, 4:30pm
Rating: 5/5
https://www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/mother-goose/?gclid
Tickets: £30 – £19
Running Time: 2 hours 30 minutes – approximate, including any interval(s).
Tickets can be purchased from:
Box Office
Email: boxoffice@derby.gov.uk
Telephone: 01332 255800
Website: https://www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/buy-tickets?event=348225
Venue: Derby Arena (please note it is £3 for parking onsite)