GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS by SRT The Little Company

“Bearable”

Reviewer: Gloria Ho
Performance: 14 March 2015

“Cannot anyhow take other people’s belongings understand? Must always ask permission first!”

Sometimes, it is difficult to verbally explain the need to adhere to morals. Most of the time, wise words go unheeded. This is where short, illustrative and memorable fairytales come into play. Through the original story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, young readers are taught the important moral and social rule of respecting others’ possessions and space.

There is no doubt that all the young members of the audience are familiar with the story of Goldilocks as they recognize and eagerly point out to their parents the bowls of porridge set on the table and the bears’ chairs on stage.

The Little Company, a division of The Singapore Repertory Theatre, first staged Goldilocks and the Three Bears in English in 2013. Goldilocks is restaged in Mandarin this time around – without English surtitles. Parents who intend to bring their little ones, especially if they have yet to receive much exposure to Mandarin, must be prepared to translate and explain the storyline as it strays from the original version.

I am most disappointed that the redeveloped storyline had not brought out the moral(s) to be learnt, despite including it in the programme booklet’s synopsis. Goldilocks (Vanessa Phang) screams incessantly upon being discovered by the bears (playing up to the children), this refashioned character shows no remorse over the trouble she has caused.

The young audience members enthusiastically repeat after words whenever prompted: collectively giving a resounding response of “不可以 (No)!” when Goldilocks asks them if she should enter the bears’ house. This constant call-and response, while interactive and lively, makes it difficult to make out what Goldilocks is saying.

The set is colorful, detailed and the transitions are smooth. The lighting designer, Gabriel Chan, has also done a good job supporting the set. The costumes are questionable. The jumpsuit with fur , the orange socks and sneakers work but the actors not wearing orange gloves or shirt seem a little inconsistent.

If you are looking for a fun time out with your child and bobbing along catchy songs and dance, Goldilocks will do the trick. Apart from that, you’re better off with an educational programme on television.