Goldilocks and the Three Bears

I have to say, this show has the most amazing sets and costumes, a real spectacular if I ever I saw one - perhaps not surprising as this was originally designed for, and performed at, the London Palladium. The story is not one of the traditional pantos that you'd be familiar with but it still has all of the elements you'd expect.

The core comedy team of Samuel Holmes (Larry the Lion Tamer), Steve Hewlett (Silly Billy) and Adam C Booth (Joey the Clown) bring huge energy to the show and keep the audience laughing - they are certainly the heart and soul of the show. Brendan Cole's evil (dancing) ringmaster lacks some of the edge I would like but Dame Kelly Holmes (Ringmistress) and Alexandra Mardell (Goldilocks) do a great job trying to carry the plot forward - plot is never the strong point of Panto! A small but busy and professional ensemble and some delightful children complete the cast. We also get a speciality act, el Mariachi Marquez (Gordon Marquez) who adds nothing to the story but is gives a spectacular show of juggling.

I'm not entirely convinced by this new story but then again, it had all the right elements and entertained, amused and amazed the audience. So, if it looks like a panto and sounds like a panto then it is a panto!