Photo credit: Andrew AB
(5 / 5)It was a joy to be back in the newly refurbished main theatre at Theatr Clwyd for their annual Rock ‘n’ Roll pantomime this year. Theatr Clwyd is currently undergoing a huge redevelopment and aims to gradually reopen, with everything up and running again from mid-2025. The main theatre, renamed Moondance, is the perfect venue for the festive event of the year- for even if sitting in the back row, it’s impossible not to feel part of the action. Audiences were thrilled not to miss out last year as the production moved to the Big Top but unfortunately it lost the intimacy which makes Theatr Clwyd’s infamous panto so special and so, here we are, back to what we know and love…oh yes, we are!
The scene is set immediately upon entering the auditorium with an old farm windmill stage right and an ominous looking water tower with a chute attached stage left (all to be revealed later in the proceedings!) The proscenium arch is adorned with brightly coloured lights and, as always, the show’s title is displayed proudly in the centre, this year decorated with bubbles and rainbows- such a lovely, warm welcome to the new venue! Theatr Clwyd’s sets always have a story to tell, and they’ve even gone one further this year adding a nod to the modern age with flashy computer screens and super tech equipment in Suella de Rhyl’s lair (kudos to whoever came up with our villain’s name this year…and that’s coming from someone who lives in Rhyl!)
The costumes get bigger and better every year (as does Phylip Harries’ Panto Dame chest!) From the beautiful bohemian regalia of Billie Eyelash, the Fairy (another inspired name!) to the sublime and ridiculous Botticelli inspired Birth of Venus costume donned by Dame Gwladys Goose- a huge hand must go to Adrian Gee whose designs are simply show-stopping!
There is something for everyone when it comes to the music and choreography in this production. We’re treated to a version of Beyonce’s Texas Hold ‘Em but with a rather amusing lyric amendment…’This ain’t Wrexham (ooh!), ain’t no hold ‘em (hey!)’, a rip-roaringly appropriate Shake Your Tail Feather and a beautifully performed take on Snow Patrol’s Chasing Cars which is surprisingly moving.
Once again, the cast enthrall us with their capabilities as performers; line dancing one moment then rocking out on guitar the next, tackling some tricky dialogue before heading off to grab their saxophone! Incredible! And the reason, for me, that Theatr Clwyd’s panto is head and shoulders above the rest! No reliance on ‘celebrity’ names, just pure talent!
This production is superbly cast, each bringing their character to life with energy, powerful vocals and spot-on comic delivery. Phylip Harries’ once again shines as the Dame (it will be a sad, sad day when he decides to throw in the boob pads!) but special mention must go to Celia Cruwys-Finnagan as Mari Goose- standing at about five feet tall, this pocket-rocket has a powerhouse voice, sparkling charisma and sheer professionalism in spades! Director Daniel Lloyd is very much missed on stage, having been a pivotal part of Theatr Clwyd’s pantos for many years. However, his experience and expertise on stage mean he is all the better at knowing what works and what doesn’t as a director, and that paired with the witty and original writing of Chris Patterson can only be a recipe for success.
Mother Goose is quite literally the mother of all pantos- it’s got everything, from a brilliant script, a stellar cast and the perfect balance of wit, sentiment and tradition with a sprinkling of Christmas cheer. The new theatre has been christened and what a fabulous beginning to its story! Here’s to the next chapter for Theatr Clwyd!
Theatr Clwyd, Mold
December 6th, 2024 – January 19th, 2025
Writer: Chris Patterson
Director: Daniel Lloyd
Set & Costume Designer: Adrian Gee
Assistant Director: Ellie Rose
Musical Director: Tayo Akinbode
Casting Director: Jenkins McShane Casting CDG
Lighting Designer: Johanna Town
Sound Designer: Ian Barnard
Choreographer: Jess Williams
Company Stage Manager: Alec Reece
Deputy Stage Manager: Edward Salt
Assistant Stage Manager: Emma Hardwick
Wellbeing Facilitator: Hester Evans
Cast includes Dan Bottomley, Joe Butcher, Celia Cruwys-Finnigan, Imad Eldeen, Phylip Harries, Alice McKenna, Ryan Owen, Steve Simmonds, Chioma Uma, Georgina White
Running time: Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes (inc. interval)