By Jade Hughes
There’s no better way to dive head-first into the Christmas spirit than a fabulous, traditional pantomime, is there? It’s a British institution, after all. Having been around for hundreds of years, this art-form has stood the test of time—even coming back with a bang after the pandemic which is quite the achievement when you compare it to the post-covid cinema crash. It made me wonder why pantomime is as popular as ever and what that says about us as a nation?
Pantomime aims to respect the custom of family entertainment with slapstick humour, catchy songs, and a heart-warming story which is often steeped in morale. From the larger-than-life characters, over-the-top flamboyant frocks, wicked villains to boo and hiss, and magical fairies to save the day and restore our faith in good…pantomimes are more than just a show, but an immersive experience to be enjoyed. Some of my earliest memories are being taken along to the panto and encouraged to make as much noise as possible, which is likely why I enjoyed it so much. I can’t think of another show that incites such levels of audience participation. In fact, I think the actors might be slightly jarred if there isn’t some kind of friendly engagement from the crowds—the panto dames are there to be shouted at!
Family Fun at the Pavilion Panto
So, whilst Santa is gearing himself up for his annual trip and the elves are finalising their lists…our friends over at the Pavilion have just announced a cracker of a show: Beauty and the Beastie—The Enchantin’ Family Panto. Presented by Imagine Theatres and co-written and directed by panto legend Liam Dolan and Eric Potts, this magical tale is bound to give us a good chuckle. A dazzling, all-star cast including Jennifer Neil, Stephen Purdon, Liam Dolan, Scott Fletcher, Valissa Scott, Jack Jester, Craig Glover, Nikki Auld, and Grado will be providing the festive entertainment. As expected, they’ve taken one of the most loved and romantic fairy tales of all time and reimagined happily ever after then added a good pavilion-sized dollop of madness and a dash of mayhem for laughs.
In a Town Called Cludgie
Set in the quiet and tranquil town of Cludgie on the Cobbles, Belle spends her days helping her mum, Professor Porridge, with mundane day-to-day life tasks. Their neighbour Dame Dolly Drumchapel and her son Hector Drumchapel may have good banter…but dreamy Belle longs for more (and quite right, too, I say!) Meanwhile, up in Cludgie Castle, things are not so chilled. A curse has been placed upon the arrogant Prince Lorenzo by an enchantress meaning he must find true love before the last petal falls from the enchanted rose. But the question is…will the Beastie’s selfishness and pride cost him, or will Belle be the one to save him? OH, YES SHE…ahem—I mean…you’ll have to book tickets to find out.
Beauty and the Beastie tickets could make the perfect pre-stocking filler for family and friends who might fancy a night of booing, hissing, toe-tapping, and silly festive fun. It’s a great way to lighten up, have a laugh, sing at the top of our voices, and mark the year gone by with the people who matter most. It’s a treat for all ages and a spectacle not to be forgotten, so don’t miss out on a great way to kick start the jolly season!
To book tickets visit –
w:Beauty and the Beastie, Pavilion Theatre
Plus, we’re giving you the chance to win family of four tickets for the opening night on the 28th November – Enter Pavilion Panto Competition
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