Hawick Panto review: Goldilocks and The Three Bears

Hawick Pantomime Group’s colourful production of “Goldilocks and The Three Bears”, has been entertaining audiences since Tuesday evening.

It has been a delight, with everything that a good traditional pantomime should have. Wonderful, colourful characters, loads of audience participation, great songs, dance routines, heroes and villains, love and romance, plenty of humour and a happy ending.

Thanks to the panto group’s sterling work, this has all been magically conjured up in this week’s show.

Producer Margaret Moyes, who has shone in many a panto herself over the years, must be delighted with her cast. Everyone – from the leads to other roles to the chorus – were stars in their own right and Margaret could not have asked for more. The plaudits also go the way of choreographer Emma Coltman as the dance numbers are top notch.

Set in the Sadie Spangle Circus, which is stationed in Hawick’s Volunteer Park , this alternative take on “Goldilocks” tale has a strong local theme and adds to the fun.

In their first major roles, Erin Hogg and Catherine MacFarlane emerged with flying colours. Erin was perfect as Goldilocks, producing all the qualities needed for the part with charm and flair. As Ronnie the Ringmaster, who falls in love with Goldilocks, Catherine got into the right groove as well, and they were a dynamic duo.

The Three Bears – Lisa Scott (Father Bear), Kathy Webber (Mother Bear) and Charlie Marshall (Baby Bear) – are a fun trio with their humorous antics.

Every panto has its dame and this production has a glorious one in Mike Webber (Sadie Spangle). From his colourful costumes to his outrageous, exuberant antics, Mike was superb in the role.

Graham Ford has put everything into his part as circus clown Joey Whizzbang, emerging a whizz himself as a result in bringing about laughs galore. Throughout the show Graham had a catchline of “Is Everybody Happy” – and everybody was.

Cammy Renwick and Andrew Shields emerged as panto baddies Gentleman Jack and Scary Boo – and they got their roles off to perfection. No wonder they got booed.

Speaking in rhyme, Shonagh McLaren cast her own magical spell performing the good fairy, Belinda.

CAST

Chorus: Sarah Adams, Shelley Brankin, Nikki Brotherstone, Katie Brown, Emma Coltman, Daniel Drummond, Aimee Fraser, Ali Hill, Sophie Hyslop, Michelle Jarvis, Kyle Johnstone, Roslyn Mundell, Zack Mundell, Niamh Scott, Danni Turnbull, Maryann Williams. Music man: Drew Gibb.