Review: Mother Goose and the Golden Egg a 'Christmas cracker'

I’m struggling not to put any egg puns in this review of South Hill Park’s traditional Christmas treat, as almost every one possible was packed into writer Joyce Branagh’s script, and those that were missing, director Mark Hooper ensured that there was no hen unturned and any missing eggcrucuatuing joke cracked open and mixed into this poultry pun packed panto. 

Although a shorter show of recent times, this was a high energy non-stop performance of geese, gold and greed, that didn’t waste any time. 

Quick fire gags rattled the funny bones, old and new songs, both originals and parodies, kept feet tapping and hands clapping and the focus of the audience of both young and old firmly on the seasonal spectacle that was unfolding on a dazzling set of stage designs and performances.

A special mention to choreographer Abi Logan who devised some marvellous dance sequences, bringing out some equally great moves from a cast who appeared to be enjoying themselves as much as the lively audience were.

Notable members of a notable cast included Kerry Ingram and Christopher Patten-Walker, who bounced with enviable energy around the stage like a pair of hyper-active CBeebies presenters as Mother Goose’s twins.

Regular Bracknell panto villain, Paul Toulson, continued to enjoy the hiss and boos as Ravenella Crow, and Julian Brett, Keir Buist, Lisa Clare, Jessi O’Donnell and Caitlin Tyla Edmonson were a strong supporting cast.

For me, it was South Hill Park newcomer, Neil Jennings, who made the biggest impact as Mother Goose. Reminiscent of the late Julian Hirst who donned the dame’s outrageous outfits for many a South Hill Park Panto, Neil’s faultless performance, comedy timing and stage presences were excellent and wow, can this dame dance!

This was yet another Christmas Cracker of a show and talking of crackers and egg puns. What’s the difference between an egg and a South Hill Park Pantomime?  Well, you can beat an egg, but you can’t beat a South Hill Park Pantomime.  Enjoy!

Mother Goose and the Golden Egg is showing at Bracknell's South Hill Park until Sunday, January 4.