Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Brian Conley’s return to Milton Keynes Theatre is nothing short of joyous. From the moment he appears as Billy Barnum, he’s clearly in his element. The laughs come thick and fast, his singing is on point, and his trademark warmth fills the stage. The tightrope routine is a real highlight — a brilliant nod to his time in Barnum — and the audience loved every second. He anchors the show beautifully, giving it real heart as well as plenty of mischief.

The circus theme works a treat. The Big Top atmosphere is created with clever staging and lighting, but it’s the acts themselves that really delight. The Timbuktu Tumblers bring stunning athleticism, with acrobatics that raise the energy of the whole theatre. Phil Hitchcock, as The Magical Mysterioso, provides some genuine wow moments: doves seem to appear from thin air and the floating fire illusion had the crowd whispering in amazement.

Lucy Conley makes a warm and engaging Goldilocks, and her natural on-stage rapport with Brian adds an extra charm to their scenes together. David Robbins, as Dame Betty Barnum, delivers all the traditional silliness you want from a panto dame, while Gary Milner gives just the right amount of villainy as Baron Von Blackheart.

One of the show’s biggest strengths is that it doesn’t try to cram in too much story. Instead, it leans into what makes pantomime fun — proper laughs, big musical moments, and room for the circus performers to shine. Everything feels well balanced, and the whole production runs with a lovely flow that keeps the audience hooked.

This is a great night out for families, full of colour, spectacle and big-hearted fun. The children in the audience were completely transfixed, and the adults didn’t stop smiling either. A magical, feel-good pantomime that’s well worth seeing.