Pantomime Gunge Scene
Pantomime Gunge Scene
So, last night we spent a bit of time trying to work out the moves for the classic Pantomime Gunge Scene. Not an easy one the get right – but if it is done well it can be one of the funniest in the show and the kids LOVE it!
Having been at the receiving end of the gunge myself I know what a trial it can be for the performers on stage, and the key to that is getting the gunge right. In previous years we have had ‘baking’ or ‘washing’ scenes where the gunge needed to be really thick and foamy and so we sourced some products via the internet that you whisk up with water each night. This has the advantage of looking great, and holding it’s shape well but is does resemble meringue in many ways and has the tendency to set rock hard if you do not take care to wash it out of any hair/garments/large and expensive velvet stage curtains immediately after use….
This year we have a ’wallpapering’ slop scene. Our gunge this year needs to be pasted on to one of the characters with a brush and poured over their head so it doesn’t need to be as thick or colourful as previous years.
I think this calls for a bit of experimentation to get the right stuff. Shavings sticks mixed with water? Cornflour to thicken water? Or bite the bullet and order some proper gunge online? Oh – and we’d better check with the cast if they have any allergies before we settle on something…..
