Goldilocks And The Three Bears At Milton Keynes Theatre NOW - Review

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Posted by Simon Tuck at Thursday, 11 December 2025 02:10

Roll up, roll up to see panto join the circus, as Goldilocks and the Three Bears flies into Milton Keynes Theatre for plenty of festive fun from Sat 6 Dec - Sun 11 Jan 2026.

Milton Keynes Theatre announced earlier this year that pantomime legend Brian Conley will return as Billy Barnum to lead this year’s cast in the magical circus-themed Goldilocks and the Three Bears from Sat 6 Dec - Sun 11 Jan 2026. He’s joined by Lucy Conley, who stars as Goldilocks along with renowned dame David Robbins as Dame Betty Barnum, panto villain Gary Milner as Baron Von Blackheart, magician Phil Hitchcock as The Magical Mysterioso, and (direct from Zippo’s Circus) The Timbuktu Tumblers.

Dawn Tuck went to see this and said

🌟 Goldilocks and the Three Bears: A Triumph of Panto Magic!

This production is a lively, joyful explosion of classic pantomime spirit, successfully blending humor, excitement, and genuine warmth for a perfect family outing.

A Panto Dynasty: The Father-Daughter Duo

The true heart of the show lies in the fantastic casting of the father-daughter duo, Brian and Lucy Conley. Their real-life connection translates into a wonderfully warm and authentic stage chemistry that anchors the performance.

Brian Conley (as Billy Barnum): Brian is the undisputed master of ceremonies. His naturally quick wit and effortless stage presence are superb, driving the story forward with perfectly timed jokes and countless throwaway lines that keep the audience roaring.

Lucy Conley (as Goldilocks): Lucy shines brightly as Goldilocks, bringing a modern sensibility, energy, and charm to the role. She captures Goldilocks’ playful curiosity while balancing the show’s comedic chaos with genuine sweetness.

Standout Performances & Circus Thrills

The supporting cast is equally brilliant, delivering exactly what panto fans crave:

David Robbins (as Dame Betty Barnum): Robbins is a sensation! He provides everything audiences love in a panto dame—impeccable comic timing, outrageous costumes, and fantastic rapport with the crowd, keeping the energy levels sky-high.

Gary Milner (as the Evil Ringmaster): Milner is delightfully wicked. He relishes the audience's boos, making a flamboyant entrance in every scene. His dramatic performance, punctuated by hilarious physical comedy (like a face full of spat-out apple!), adds necessary drama while keeping the mood light.

Magical Mysterioso (Phil Hitchcock): Magician Phil Hitchcock is truly impressive. His illusions are seamlessly woven into the narrative, creating moments of pure wonder for the younger audience members.

The show is further elevated by the incredible talents of The Timbuktu Tumblers. Their acrobatic skills and dynamic circus routines provide thrilling bursts of energy and authenticity, fitting perfectly with the pantomime's comedy and storytelling.

VERDICT: This production is a must-see. It's an unforgettable, fun experience for families and dedicated panto enthusiasts alike.

For five weeks only, Milton Keynes Theatre will be transformed into a sensational circus, where everything is possible, and anything could (and will) happen. This festive extravaganza will be packed with riotous comedy, extraordinary special effects, hair-raising stunts, and awe-inspiring circus acts!

Goldilocks’ circus is under threat from an evil rival circus owner and, with the help of their circus friends, they’re battling to rescue their Big Top from ruin. Will they succeed? All seems lost, until three brilliant bears join the gang…

Emma Sullivan, Theatre Director at Milton Keynes Theatre, said:

“Two years ago, audiences adored the on-stage chemistry and comedy banter between panto legend Brian Conley and his daughter Lucy, so we are beyond thrilled to be once again welcoming back not one but two members of the Conley family for this year’s festive season!

David Robbins, Gary Milner, Phil Hitchcock, and the rest of this fantastic cast will ensure there is a perfect mix of speciality circus acts and traditional panto fun: all the ingredients we need for Goldilocks and the Three Bears to be the greatest panto on earth!”

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Goldilocks and the Three Bears runs at Milton Keynes Theatre from Sat 6 Dec 2025 until Sun 11 Jan 2026. Full casting is to be announced later in the year. There will be a range of Audio Described, Captioned, BSL interpreted and relaxed performances throughout the season.

The official charity partner for this year’s pantomime is the Milton Keynes Community Foundation (MKCF), which means that the generous donations made during the panto season will go directly into MKCF’s Community Fund, ensuring that local charities and community groups across Milton Keynes benefit through vital grant opportunities.

Book your tickets today at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes and be swept away by a pantomime spectacular that’s just right!

Goldilocks And The Three Bears At Milton Keynes Theatre NOW - Review

🌟 Goldilocks and the Three Bears: A Triumph of Panto Magic!

A Panto Dynasty: The Father-Daughter Duo

Standout Performances & Circus Thrills

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