Goldilocks And The Three Bears, Theatre Royal Plymouth Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Linda Curtain

You know Christmas is near when it’s opening night of the pantomime at the Theatre Royal Plymouth so I was delighted to have the opportunity to review this years festive treat ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’.

The Christmas magic started as soon as we arrived at the theatre which had colourful projections illuminating the building – the front of which had been transformed to appear like entering a circus big-top.

We were quickly directed to the auditorium by the helpful, festively attired front of house staff and armed with our programme and necessary memorabilia we soon settled into our seats where we were immersed in circus music, a beautifully decorated stage and glittering lights all around.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears is a seldom seen pantomime and the stage production is certainly different from the fairy tale we all know.  This tale follows the fortunes of Goldilocks and her mother who own a circus which is in decline and under threat from a rival circus owner who is determined to capture the three bears who are an integral part of Goldilocks’s circus.

With a menacing start where baddie Baron Von Bolshoi sets out his evil plans, the stage soon bursts into light and action to show the enchantment of the circus.  This pantomime certainly gives an opportunity for comedy and talent as individuals within the circus performed their acts – you could almost feel you were in an actual circus!

Goldilocks was confidently played by Alexandra Mardell.  Making her pantomime debut she was captivating and engaged well with the audience.  She had a sparkle and innocence about her on stage.  Also making her pantomime debut was Dame Kelly Holmes who played Goldilocks’s mother – Ringmistress Olympia – and several Olympic references were well incorporated into the storyline.  No pantomime is complete without its ‘baddie’ and the role of the evil ringmaster was excellently portrayed by Brendan Cole.  His stage presence and diction were brilliant and it was great to see his amazing dance talent again. 

Comedy was what the evening was all about and with three comedy characters, there were jokes and laughs in abundance.  Silly Billy – played by Steve Hewlett – was great and loved by the children and adults alike. Joey the clown – played by ventriloquist Adam C Booth – entertained us with his puppetry and a cameo appearance by Gordon Marquez showed some amazing juggling.  It was lovely to see Sam Holmes returning to his Plymouth roots as Larry the lion tamer.  What a character!  His comedy timing, expressions and enthusiasm are second to none.  Add to the mix the charming bears and you have the Goldilocks set-up.

After an absence of four years, it was great to see the Theatre Royal Junior Ensemble back on stage – a team of youngsters who successfully auditioned to take their first steps with a professional company.  They all danced and sang with such enthusiasm, professionalism and sense of enjoyment – an experience they will remember for years to come.

My main criticism would be the music which was far too loud at times especially when the cast were singing. The words during the bears cottage scene were sadly overpowered.

With spectacular costumes – especially those worn by Larry!, amazing lighting, scenery and stage props (watch out for Dame Kelly riding on a huge elephant!) plus a talented ensemble of dancers, this was such an enjoyable evening.

Produced by the Crossroads Pantomime Company under the direction of Jonathan Kiley and choreography by Paul Robinson, this is certainly a festive treat packed with amazing circus acts, extraordinary special effects and a talented committed cast.

Thank you Theatre Royal Plymouth for bringing us such a different pantomime this year.

Rating: 4/5

Tickets cost from £18

https://theatreroyal.com/whats-on/goldilocks-and-the-three-bears/
Goldilocks and the Three Bears is at Theatre Royal Plymouth until 13th January 2024
For more information or to book tickets visit theatreroyal.com