If it’s been more than just a few years since you went to see a pantomime, then let me suggest you make a point of booking to see Goldilocks and The Three Amazing Bears at Bolton’s Albert Halls sometime over this festive season.
The show runs until 8th January 2012 and stars Bolton’s one and only Stu Francis, a local boy and favourite at the Albert Halls Panto’. Bookings can be made at the Albert Halls Booking Office, Victoria Square or on line via the link above but if you want a good laugh with all the family, you couldn’t make a better choice!
I have to admit it’s been quite a while since I last went to a panto and was a little sceptical as to what to expect but this show is packed with pure comedy. With everything from shaving foam custard pies and slapstick stunts to the ubiquitous modified pop songs and risqué humour, I was taken by the moment and found myself joining in with songs and laughing out loud on more than one occasion.
The cast boasts a number of seasoned professionals as well as talented newcomers and an abundance of local talent, with the chorus being provided by the Bolton Dance and Performing Arts College.
Stu Francis demonstrates his pedigree as a star of stage and screen with a brilliantly energetic and hilarious performance and it isn’t long before his well-known catchphrases are tumbling from the stage, ‘I could crush a grape’ and ‘I could rip a tissue’ along with many more, backed up by classic comedy from The Patton Brothers of TV’s Chucklevision fame.
The plot as would be expected is a variation on the classic Goldilocks and The Three Bears theme, padded out with a number of breath taking circus acts, including juggling with knives, balls and clubs as well as a fantastic aerial gymnastic performance and hula-hoop display. The performances are polished and professional and even when the occasional ‘clanger’ is dropped, the performers use comedy and humour to pull them through.
Once again, for Mums, Dads or anyone looking for something different to entertain the family this Christmas, I can thoroughly recommend Goldilocks and The Three Amazing Bears at Bolton’s Albert Halls, running until 8th January but just a word of warning, if you choose to sit in the front row, don’t be surprised if Dame Tilly Tart takes a shine to you and you too become a star of the show!