Review: Sion Pantomime Society's production of Goldilocks And The Three Bears at Burnley's Sion Baptist Church

A fantastic show, that is set to wow audiences this February. Fresh off the back of five NODA Awards, Burnley’s Sion Pantomime Society put on a special preview performance for family, friends and reviewers.

The anchor of the show is circus owner Dame Gertie Dollop, played by Rhys Roberts, and his hapless son Silly Billy (Amy Tattersall). Gertie’s comedic timing and delivery of hilarious one liners and retorts will have the adults in the audience in fits of laughter, with Billy’s slapstick comedy, circus skills and wonderful singing voice endearing him to all.

Billy’s love interest is Goldilocks, played by Sion newcomer Evie Parrish. It was a flawless, confident and mature performance and an excellent vocal performance- the harmonies alongside Billy in ‘Count on Me’ an absolute stand out.

Richard Parrish added the calm experience needed in the tricky role as Baron Wasteland. Of particular note are his vocal abilities, showcased in a heart warming duet with Goldilocks but also adding a rounded edge to choral numbers.It was great to see Mark Lawless back as Daddy Bear - things run too smooth without him, and with him no audience member is safe!

Mother Bear was played confidently and cheerfully by Lottie Parrish, and in Baby Bear (Riley Lawless) there is a rising star who’s professional line delivery was backed up with a cheekiness that ensured the three bears lit up the stage.

Every panto needs at Ethereal being, and through Mystic Sharon, Jan Bamber delivered a fairy god mother character that will reassure audiences that good will always overcome evil. And, with Kevin Starkie-Moore taking the part of rival ringmaster Heinkel, it was pure evil!

Assisted by scary clown Snot (Lucas Ormerod), Heinkel was a terrifying baddy, with a fantastic stage presence and stand out make up.

It takes some talent to turn a Britney Spears pop song into a dark, eerie number that made the hair on the back of your neck stand up, but with fantastic choreography and support from chorus members, this was achieved.

As always with Sion Pantomime, additional roles are performed by church members and family and friends, and there was no shortage of talent on display. A superb salsa number from Emma Gill took on a comedic twist that had the audience roaring.

Laura Wilkinson’s appearance as Magical Linda showed the true spirit of panto and the younger cast members added the cuteness factor. It was wonderful to see them take on parts and lines at various parts. The staging was as fabulous as ever, the big top scenery in particular providing a perfect setting for the story to unfold. A special mention also for costumes and award winning director Marcia Turner. It’s a show not to be missed.

The show opens tomorrow (Tuesday) and runs until this Saturday (February 21) at Sion Baptist Church. Tickets are £10 for adults and £7 for children. These are available by ringing 07351 420723 or by clicking HERE