Whether you love ‘em or hate ‘em, pantomimes are guaranteed to rouse the emotions and warm the cockles of your heart. Panto season is about to get into full swing with a host of old traditional favourites and contemporary adaptations on offer across the West Country. So don’t be a humbug, gather your children and/or grandchildren and head off to your local theatre and let your hair down and join in all that boisterous fun. Here’s a taster of what’s on offer over the coming weeks.
If you’re holidaying in Dorset, jump on your magic carpet and head for Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre for Aladdin. Scott Maslen, better known as Jack Branning in Eastenders, is stepping out of the square and onto the Pavilion stage as the evil but sexy Abanazar.
There’s a host of TV, film and stage stars, including Nigel Havers, appearing in the Theatre Royal, Plymouth’s stunning production of Robin Hood (above). Get ready for a sheriff-busting, arrow-shooting, tights-wearing extravaganza!
Another star-studded cast will be treading the boards at the Queen’s Theatre in Barnstaple where the classic panto Sleeping Beauty will be packed with all the usual gallant goodies and beastly baddies... and of course there’ll be loads of chances to join in!
Heading further west, Cornwall refuses to be overshadowed with a fabulous production of the Cinderella at the Hall for Cornwall in Truro. This magical tale of love and adventure will have your children captivated from the start.
Hi Ho Hi Ho, it’s off to work we go… Yes, you’ve guessed it, Happy, Sleepy, Sneezy, Grumpy, Dopey, Bashful and Doc will be working overtime to keep the kids amused at the Redruth’s Regal Theatre production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Check your mirror to see if this is the fairest panto of them all.
Wherever you decide to go, have fun this Christmas.
