"Mother Goose" is a delightful revival of a classic pantomime that blends nostalgia with modern humour. Sir Ian McKellen, at nearly 84, returns to his passion for panto, joined by the charismatic John Bishop. This production reimagines the traditional tale by setting it in an abandoned Debenhams, where the Goose family runs an animal sanctuary. Jonathan Harvey’s script is filled with timely political satire and sharp humour, making it a highly entertaining experience for audiences of all ages.
I attended the matinee performance of "Mother Goose" on Saturday, April 8th, which started promptly at 2 PM. I paid £45 for my ticket, a bit more than I usually would, but I used theatre vouchers, which made it a worthwhile splurge. The seat, located in the stalls at Q20, offered an excellent central view with plenty of legroom and comfort, enhancing the overall experience. The production had been on tour across the UK since December, and I had eagerly awaited its arrival at The Lowry, especially given the stellar cast and the positive buzz surrounding the show.
The story follows Caroline Goose (played by Ian McKellen) and her husband Vic (John Bishop) as they navigate a rags-to-riches journey, thanks to their goose, Cilla Quack (Anna-Jane Casey), who lays golden eggs. The plot, while straightforward, is laced with hilarious asides, topical jokes, and engaging innuendos. The stakes rise when the bad fairy Malignia (Karen Mavundukure) tempts Mother Goose with fame, leading to a humorous yet heartfelt exploration of the consequences of fortune. The narrative strikes a perfect balance between tradition and modernity, holding the audience’s attention from start to finish.
The set design, featuring a shabby yet endearing Debenhams, captures the essence of the Goose family’s humble beginnings. As the story progresses, the set transitions seamlessly to more extravagant locations like the Oscars and Gooseland, adding to the spectacle. Liz Ascroft’s costumes are a highlight, particularly McKellen’s vibrant wardrobe, which ranges from a pink negligee to a Ginger Spice-inspired Union Jack dress. The lighting effectively enhances the mood, from the cozy warmth of the sanctuary to the glitz of Hollywood.
True to pantomime tradition, the show was filled with interactive elements that kept the audience engaged. From the playful participation involving energy bills, where the audience enthusiastically echoed the phrase every time it was mentioned, to the classic throwing of sweets, the production kept everyone on their toes. There was even a moment when cast members wielded water guns, playfully squirting the audience—I was caught by surprise when I got hit in the face! The lively interaction continued with giant inflatable footballs being tossed around the auditorium, adding a fun, chaotic energy to the performance.
The show featured charming animal puppets that brought an additional layer of whimsy to the production. These puppets were well-designed and added to the family-friendly atmosphere of the panto. The musical numbers, including familiar tunes like "I'm Too Sexy," "Don't Rain on My Parade," and "Born This Way,", with Anna-Jane Casey’s performance of "Don't Rain On My Parade" standing out as a highlight.
The cast of "Mother Goose" is outstanding, led by Ian McKellen and John Bishop, whose chemistry is undeniable. McKellen’s comic timing and expressive performance are a masterclass, while Bishop’s natural humour and charm keep the audience engaged. The supporting cast, including Oscar Conlon-Morrey as Jack, Simbi Akande as Jill, Sharon Ballard as the good fairy Encanta, and Genevieve Nicole as Puss, add depth and energy to the show. Special mention goes to Adam Brown as the Goat and Becca Francis as the Penguin, who contribute to the lively ensemble.
"Mother Goose" is a joyous, laugh-out-loud experience that offers something for everyone. With its clever script, stellar cast, and vibrant production design, it’s a pantomime that not only entertains but also leaves a lasting impression. Whether you're a panto veteran or a newcomer, this production is a must-see. Four stars for a delightful, well-executed performance that brings classic panto fun into the modern age.
Mother Goose is on at The Lowry until Sunday 9th April 2024, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show click the button below for the show's official website.
Photo Credit - Manuel Harlan
Comments