Goldilocks and the Three Bears at Darlington Hippodrome Review
Written by Stacy for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
From the moment the curtain lifted at Darlington Hippodrome I felt as if I had stepped into a whirl of colour, rhythm, and sheer theatrical joy. Goldilocks and the Three Bears has always promised a circus setting, but this production delivered something far beyond that promise. From start to finish it was pure spectacle with dazzling costumes, bold staging, and a sense of playful wonder that never once dipped.
Director Tim Hammond keeps the action flowing with brisk confidence while choreographer Sharon Harding fills every inch of the stage with movement that feels both joyful and precise. The choreography bursts with personality, and every ensemble entrance seems to lift the energy of the room another notch. Yet none of this would hit the same heights without the extraordinary costumes from Teresa Nalton and the specialty costume creations of Mike Coltman. Their work transforms the production into a visual feast. Rich textures, luminous colours, and ingenious circus inspired silhouettes elevate each character and every scene. The costumes are not just decorative but essential narrative fuel that deepens the world and amplifies the spectacle.
At the centre of this joyful whirlwind stands Josh Benson as Joey, the Clown. His comic style fits the role with absolute perfection. His energy is so relentless that simply watching him left me breathless. Children roared with laughter before he had even finished his first routine, and he controlled the crowd with the confidence of a seasoned pro. Every entrance sparkled, every gag landed (there or thereabouts), and his presence stitched the entire show together with remarkable warmth and skill.
Jamie Jones as Dame Betty Barnum reminded me instantly why she is one of my favourite Dames. She commands the stage with such ease that the audience relaxes the moment she arrives. Her never-ending wardrobe of ever bolder and ever more spectacular costumes is an event in itself. Each entrance became a mini revelation, and yet beneath all the glitz, she delivers a performance rooted in comic instinct, charm, and perfect timing. She holds the audience with total safety and delight, and you know you are in expert hands.
Taziva Faye Katsande made a radiant Goldilocks. From her first line she was instantly likeable and her voice soared beautifully through the auditorium. She brought heart and sincerity to the story, grounding the circus excitement with warmth and authenticity.
The Three Bears portrayed by Jonny Weston, Christina Berriman Dawson and Jessica Daugirda, were sensational. They offered a perfect blend of character, comedy, and vocal strength. Jessica Daugirda in particular deserves huge praise. Dancing a crisp, confident tap routine inside the full Bear suit is an achievement that borders on heroic, and she did it with charisma and a stage presence that lit up the room.
Brendan Cole as Baron Von Bolshoi delivered exactly what I hoped for. He moved with unshakable confidence and seemed utterly at ease in the villain role offering the audience a delicious blend of swagger, menace, and charm. His Latin-inspired moments added a touch of glamour and gave the production an extra layer of flair.
Then came Gordon Marquez as El Mariachi Marquez, the true cherry on top. His juggling routine had my heart racing. The speed, the danger, the artistry, it all felt unreal. For a moment, I genuinely forgot I was at a pantomime and felt transported to a grand Las Vegas stage. His act alone could have headlined an entire evening, yet here it was seamlessly woven into an already overflowing feast of theatrical magic.
The ensemble of dancers provided the final polish. Their technique was sharp their confidence unmistakable and they carried themselves with the poise of performers well accustomed to professional pantomime. They helped lift each number into something joyous immersive and wonderfully complete.
This is a show that understands the spirit of pantomime but refuses to settle for anything ordinary. It dazzles, it surprises, and it leaves you grinning long after the final bow. A five star triumph of pure joy and circus wonder. A breathtaking burst of colour, comedy, and heart. Quite simply a show that turns magic into reality.
Playing at 31 December 2025
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
