1). Jez Edwards is back again (for the 11th time !!) and playing Muddles The Jester – his local humour can’t fail to get both kids and adults laughing throughout. He thinks on his feet and brings so much energy to the performance with some brilliant ad-libbed jokes to go along with everything else – he will have you in stitches.
2). Sleeping Beauty is a classic fairy tale and was brilliantly performed. Don’t worry if you have seen or read Sleeping Beauty before as it keeps you interested throughout with lots of twists and our mini Mumblers were captivated throughout.
3). The pantomime villain, Carabosse, is expertly played by Myra DuBois. She is very funny, interacts with the audience perfectly and although she was a villain played it in such a way that she didn’t scare the mini Mumblers.
4). The pantomime dame, Dolly Dolittle, showed slapstick at its best with lots of funny jokes and big, loud costumes. The comic timing that Dolly and her stage son Muddles just has to be seen.
5). The old favourite pantomime scenes are scripted seamlessly into the performance. ‘It’s behind you’, the disappearing / reappearing ghost, curtains falling down and many more are all part of the show so you won’t be disappointed.
6). The theatre is small and intimate meaning you almost feel like you are on the stage with the cast. The cast are constantly looking for audience participation and along with being so close to the stage you can’t fail to join in – the mini Mumblers loved it !
7). There are no big queues for ice creams, drinks or merchandise like you might get at bigger theatres. We used the bar both before the pantomime started and at the interval and didn’t have to queue either time. The mini Mumblers also got ice creams at the interval and again there was no queue – a welcome change to many places that you visit.
8). Your children have the opportunity to get on stage at the end and take part in some funny dancing with Muddles. Look out for the poster at the front desk when you first walk in which has details on how to put your name forward.
9). If you aren’t in the Christmas spirit yet then you can’t fail to feel like Christmas is here having seen this. To top it all off there is a big sing-a-long at the end and it even snows!
10). Its ideally located in Millenium Square in Leeds so you can tie it in with a visit to the Christmas Markets before to really get you into the Christmas spirit !
Mumbler tips for enjoying your trip
Where is the Carriageworks Theatre ?
The Carriageworks Theatre is located in the Electric Press building just off Millennium Square (postcode LS2 3AD). With the German Market on, the square was pretty busy but it didn’t affect entry to the theatre. The theatre itself is modern and small in comparison to some traditional theatres. There is a bar area on each floor and the staff had laid out lots of toys in both areas to entertain children whilst they waited for the performance.
Booking tickets
The show runs until the 31st December, with morning performances and relaxed performances available too. Prices vary depending on day and seats but are available from £12.
Visit the Carriageworks website here to book or call the box office on 0113 376 0318.
**Mumbler was not paid for this review however we were given complimentary tickets. As ever all views are our open and honest opinion.
