REVIEW | Mother Goose, Derby Arena
Written by Emmie
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review
Derby’s cycling velodrome has been transformed into a purpose-built theatre to enable local audiences to experience the magic of a pantomime. Little Wolf Entertainment takes Mother Goose by the reigns and launches into a vibrant and enjoyable show for all ages.
For those unaware, Mother Goose is a classic rag to riches story. Set in the village of Squalkstone, It tells the story of a woman who is desperate to recover her youthful looks and agrees to achieve this by allowing Demon Night to have her precious Goose. She’s racked with guilt and decides to rescue the Goose from his evil clutches. Meanwhile, Demon Night captures the girlfriend of Mother Goose’s son Jack, Jill.
Adults will love Mother Goose at the Derby Arena because Morgan Brind’s writing ability is stellar, offering so many dynamics to elevate that “pantomime experience”. His work doesn’t stop there as Brind also designed and steps into the role of Mother Goose. His consistent and positive rapport with the audience is immediate and he certainly manages to have the entire arena under his thumb throughout the show. Brind arrives on the stage in a dazzling array of outfits, with everyone looking forward to whatever was around the corner. Some are particular standouts - watch out for the end of part one!
Kristian Cunningham returns to the Derby Arena once again, this time as Benedict (although Loughborough audiences, including myself, would love to see him back there one day!). Cunningham is a natural as a comic and this show enables us to see what artistic quality this individual has. His relationship with Nicola Martinus-Smith was heartwarming although from so far away viewing this show sometimes a connection with the characters is lost.
Filling the vast arena space was certainly executed by the presence of the wonderful Djalenga Scott and Todd Boyce who battle it out as Demon Vanity and Fairy Charity. Making his pantomime debut, Todd Boyce certainly doesn’t disappoint and his rendition of Kylie’s “Padam Padam” is now forever engraved in my brain.
Matthew Stevens’ choreography is sharp and jam-packed with energy. Both the adult (Ellie Brewin, Keil Clayton, Callie Coyle, George Fryer, Lilie Hill and Emilio Maoudis) and young ensemble (Team Scrambled Eggs) manage to collectively lift the production in their musical numbers.
Derby Arena’s pantomime is Egg-ceptional, grab your ticket for a memorable night with your family this festive season.
At Derby Arena until 31 December 2023.
