REVIEW | Mother Goose UK Tour

★★★★★

Reviewer - Emmie

*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review.

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Recognisable for its ‘outlandish costumes, broad comedy, celebrity turns and audience participation’ (V&A) - pantomime is a classic British tradition. Whether you like it or not, thanks to the enterprising Victorians, their innovations have cemented a popular art-form that is adored by audiences of all ages. 

Mother Goose delivers an overflowing production of joy, colour and silliness that you really do not want to miss during its UK Tour! The most notable ‘big’ pantomime production like this takes place at the London Palladium. However, what this production of Mother Goose executes is the opportunity for more people to access a pantomime on this scale. 

Leading the cast is Sir Ian McKellen and John Bishop whose chemistry between one another is flawless. Their portrayals as Caroline and Vic is well embedded in this story about a married couple who are fighting to save their sanctuary for homeless animals. There are nods to the ongoing frustrations of living under “the energy company” but their fortunes change when they meet Cilla Quack (Anna Jane Casey) who can lay golden eggs. Their loyalty to Cilla is thrown into question when the opportunity for Caroline to pursue her dreams of being famous can happen. This storyline flows smoothly like a knife through butter, with some lavish musical numbers and comedy integrated within it. 

Watching Sir Ian McKellen perform as Mother Goose was captivating. Admired for his illustrious career, his performance in this show is inspiring. His lavish costumes referencing strong female icons throughout this production and a sustained joke where he channels Gandalf from Lord of The Rings was a brilliant touch. McKellen really breaks the mould of being a professional but also unearthing his natural charm into this role. 

John Bishop looks comfortable in the pantomime realm and shines in his role as husband Vic. He’s a gifted comedian and naturally plays out in this performance. Playing their son Jack is the effortlessly funny Oscar Conlon-Morrey. Not only does he pack an incredible voice in the musical numbers but he makes a positive impact every time he’s on the stage. 

Anna-Jane Casey is a sensational performer with her rendition of ‘Don’t Rain On My Parade’ blowing off the roof at Curve. She’s great as Cilla and adds great hilarity - especially when laying a golden egg (or three) in style!

This entire cast don’t do words justice because they are of high calibre. Whether its the Randy Bat Richard Leeming, Genevieve Nicole’s outrageous take on the Queen Consort or the formation of the powerful double act of fairies Sharon Ballard and Karen Mavundukure; the attention to detail is **chefs kiss**!! There’s even puppets which ramp up the silly factor and life in this pantomime. 

Overall Mother Goose is a blissful tonic of theatre for everyone to enjoy!

• At Curve, Leicester until 19 March then heads onto Dublin, Cardiff, Salford and Bristol.

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