6.87°C One of the best things about the British tradition of pantomime is that no permission is needed to be silly; in fact, it is expected. And the Headgate Theatre’s offering this year is a joy, a show of absolute fun that showcases the talents of our superb local theatrical community.
Created on a budget, the result is a marvellous confection of treats, not least the Big Top set (well done, team) and the wonderful costumes, especially the Dame’s final one. It is colourful and inventive throughout, particularly the brilliant designs for the three bears. Tom Whalley’s script mashes together the Goldilocks story with classic pantomime tropes, offering originality and laughs aplenty, and the show is directed with aplomb by Dawn King and assistant director Maddy Smith.
The cast has enormous fun with it, and there is not a weak link. Kevin Topple is a great Dame Gertie Dollop, firing out one-liners and engaging the audience with skill, while Jamie Glasse is totally delightful as her “son” Silly Billy, adored by the children in the audience. Best of all is Alfie Hester’s brilliant baddie, Ringmaster Heinkel, determined to take over Dame Dollop’s failing circus, ably supported by Finlay Dennis as his hapless sidekick Snot.
The three bears are utterly adorable: Jasmine Wilson gets the audience firmly on her side as Baby Bear, Sarah Suckling is a warm and engaging Mummy Bear, and Mike Cutmore is superb as Daddy Bear, not least during his fabulous MC Hammer routine in the middle of “We Are Family”. Elia Tiatino makes a luminous Goldilocks, creating many sweet moments with Silly Billy, and Alice Molnar’s choreography keeps the show moving with flair and style.
Pantomime is notoriously difficult to get right, and it is often the case that the first night is when the company truly settle in front of a full audience. Generally, there was an excellent level of confidence here, with just a few blips, and they can absolutely lean further into the chaos when things go wrong. With a running joke involving juggling balls to keep all ages entertained, this energetic, gorgeous-looking panto deserves every bit of the generous applause it receives.
A wonderful end to the 2025 Headgate Theatre Productions season.
Review by Paul T. Davies, Theatre Editor, Keep Colchester Cool
Photo credit: Sally Parkinson Photography
