Pantomime - a Great British Tradition
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Pantomime? What on earth is it all about?
In the UK a Pantomime, or "Panto" as it is usually affectionately called, is a musical show, performed around Christmas for the entertainment of millions of families. Many of the stories are based around popular Fairy Tales. Children love to see their favourite stories played out on the stage, even if the plot is a little different to what they might expect and Panto is usually guaranteed to give the whole family a good time. The children enjoy it and the parents enjoy seeing the children have a good time. Sounds simple doesn't it?
But to the uninitiated and non-British theatre-goer, the humour, not to mention the insane plot and the cast with the extremely silly character names may leave you absolutely flummoxed as to what on earth is going on. It is difficult to describe in words what Panto is all about - thank goodness for You Tube!
This is one Panto fan's genuine attempt to encourage more global understanding and appreciation of a very Great British tradition - oh yes it is!
"Dick Whittington Pantomime"
Lens pic available as a poster from AllPosters.com
But to the uninitiated and non-British theatre-goer, the humour, not to mention the insane plot and the cast with the extremely silly character names may leave you absolutely flummoxed as to what on earth is going on. It is difficult to describe in words what Panto is all about - thank goodness for You Tube!
This is one Panto fan's genuine attempt to encourage more global understanding and appreciation of a very Great British tradition - oh yes it is!
"Dick Whittington Pantomime"
Lens pic available as a poster from AllPosters.com
Pantomime abroad
Where else will you find Pantomime?
Pantomime is performed outside the UK, but has not really captured a huge fan base elsewhere. It has proved popular in countries such as Canada, Australia and South Africa and even Zimbabwe where a production of "Babes in the Wood" ran at the Rainbow Seven Arts Theatre in Harare.
But in the USA this very British art form has not done so well. Although in 1868 a production of "Humpty Dumpty" ran for over 1,200 performances at the Olympic Theatre, New York, making it the most successful Pantomime in American history. However, in order to survive Panto has evolved into a mixture of the traditional and the modern.
Where else would you get a scene where Aladdin meets The Daleks?
But in the USA this very British art form has not done so well. Although in 1868 a production of "Humpty Dumpty" ran for over 1,200 performances at the Olympic Theatre, New York, making it the most successful Pantomime in American history. However, in order to survive Panto has evolved into a mixture of the traditional and the modern.
Where else would you get a scene where Aladdin meets The Daleks?
History of Pantomime
Pantomime dates from the Middle Ages
The origins of Pantomime, probably date back to the middle ages. Panto blends the traditions of the Italian Commedia dell Arte with British "Old Time" Music Hall.
"Commedia dell Arte" was travelling street entertainment, which came from Italy in the 16th century. It was a very energetic type of theatre that used dance, music, tumbling, acrobatics and slapstick comedy. The troupes performed in fairs and market places. Often the troupes were made up of family members who would inherit their characters, costumes, masks and stories from their parents or grandparents.
The actors generally improvised their way through a story involving characters such as Arlecchino, or Harlequin and his true love, Columbina or Columbine. Other stock characters included the over protective father, Pantaloon, who refused to allow the heroic Harlequin to woo his daughter.
In some versions Pantaloon would have a servant, Pulchinello, who later evolved into the character called Clown. There would also always be another character, usually a soldier, who would seek the hand of Columbine. There would be lots of comedy chases and tricks to amuse the audience.
Other Panto historians believe that this form of entertainment also traces it origins to Mummers. Mumming in England goes back for over a thousand years and also formed part of the traditional English Christmas. The plays are based loosely on the legend of St George (the Patron Saint of England) and the Dragon and were intended to show the struggle between good and evil.
Half a dozen heavily disguised characters would perform the play. The characters would vary from play to play, although the hero was always St George, who fights with the power of evil traditionally represented by a Turkish Knight. Other characters may have included Napoleon and Dick the Horse.
There would be much sword play in the performance and usually one character is "killed". This would be the cue for the entrance of the "doctor" who performs a miraculous, but also comedic cure on the body and in the process demonstrates the symbolic act of reawakening the earth from it's winter slumber.
"Commedia dell Arte" was travelling street entertainment, which came from Italy in the 16th century. It was a very energetic type of theatre that used dance, music, tumbling, acrobatics and slapstick comedy. The troupes performed in fairs and market places. Often the troupes were made up of family members who would inherit their characters, costumes, masks and stories from their parents or grandparents.
The actors generally improvised their way through a story involving characters such as Arlecchino, or Harlequin and his true love, Columbina or Columbine. Other stock characters included the over protective father, Pantaloon, who refused to allow the heroic Harlequin to woo his daughter.
In some versions Pantaloon would have a servant, Pulchinello, who later evolved into the character called Clown. There would also always be another character, usually a soldier, who would seek the hand of Columbine. There would be lots of comedy chases and tricks to amuse the audience.
Other Panto historians believe that this form of entertainment also traces it origins to Mummers. Mumming in England goes back for over a thousand years and also formed part of the traditional English Christmas. The plays are based loosely on the legend of St George (the Patron Saint of England) and the Dragon and were intended to show the struggle between good and evil.
Half a dozen heavily disguised characters would perform the play. The characters would vary from play to play, although the hero was always St George, who fights with the power of evil traditionally represented by a Turkish Knight. Other characters may have included Napoleon and Dick the Horse.
There would be much sword play in the performance and usually one character is "killed". This would be the cue for the entrance of the "doctor" who performs a miraculous, but also comedic cure on the body and in the process demonstrates the symbolic act of reawakening the earth from it's winter slumber.
The Pantomime Plot & The Characters
Sometimes it is difficult to understand the Pantomime story!
The plot is very simple:
A girl, who is actually a girl playing the part of a boy (the Hero), is the son of a man, who is actually playing the part of a woman (the Dame), will fall in love with a girl who is playing the part of a girl (the Heroine).
The girl dressed as the boy will sometimes be assisted by one or two men (or it could be women) dressed up as a cow, or a horse or any other animal the scriptwriters dream up.
Other characters will include:
a clown or a jester or a servant, always a male character but could be played by a woman, who may also be in love with the Heroine
the Baddy, could be male or female and if it is a female it could be played by a male. Male baddies are usually played by males
the Baddy's assistant - usually a baddy as well but could turn out to be more of a goody
Are you still with me?
A girl, who is actually a girl playing the part of a boy (the Hero), is the son of a man, who is actually playing the part of a woman (the Dame), will fall in love with a girl who is playing the part of a girl (the Heroine).
The girl dressed as the boy will sometimes be assisted by one or two men (or it could be women) dressed up as a cow, or a horse or any other animal the scriptwriters dream up.
Other characters will include:
Are you still with me?
The Pantomime Heroine
Pantomime heroines include: Cinderella, Aurora in Sleeping Beauty, Princess Jasmine in Aladdin
Usually young and pretty, the Heroine, was traditionally a "straight" character who is sweet and innocent. Although in more modern times the Heroine can be a more feisty character, and less the pathetic and helpless female of the early and mid 1900s. Nowadays this Heroine really will pick up a chair and bash the Baddy over the head rather than stand idly by screaming as he battles with The Hero!
The Heroine will usually be a good singer and always ends up "living happily ever after" with the Principal Boy (Hero). However, again in more recent times, scripts have veered away from the traditional and Cinderella may end up with Buttons after all.
The Heroine will usually be a good singer and always ends up "living happily ever after" with the Principal Boy (Hero). However, again in more recent times, scripts have veered away from the traditional and Cinderella may end up with Buttons after all.
The Pantomime Hero or The Principal Boy
Pantomime heroes include: Aladdin, Prince Florizel in Sleeping Beauty, The Prince in Cinderella, even a poor boy like Jack in Jack and the Beanstalk
The female playing the principal boy usually dresses in short, tight fitting costumes accompanied by knee-high leather boots and fishnet stockings. In days gone by this was undoubtedly a ruse to increase the numbers of the male audience.
It was very common in Regency and Victorian performances, both of which played a part in the shaping of pantomime, for women to play any male role they wanted, such as Hamlet, Romeo, Falstaff, Richard III and Shylock.
Every so often the Hero is required to slap her, sorry I mean his, thigh - please don't ask me why!
It was very common in Regency and Victorian performances, both of which played a part in the shaping of pantomime, for women to play any male role they wanted, such as Hamlet, Romeo, Falstaff, Richard III and Shylock.
Every so often the Hero is required to slap her, sorry I mean his, thigh - please don't ask me why!
The Pantomime Dame
Pantomime Dames include: Widow Twanky in Aladdin, Queen Tilly in Sleeping Beauty, The Ugly Sisters in Cinderella
The Dame is the most exaggerated and "over the top" part than any other character. Always played by a male dressed in the most outrageous costumes (think Madonna's bra!), The Dame is usually portrayed as a mother figure, who is unattractive, definitely past her sell by date, fairly common and just ever such a little bit crude. The problem being that she believes she is youthful, beautiful and sophisticated!
Often the Hero's Mother or Aunt, the Dame is normally a friend to either or both the Hero and the Heroine. If unmarried then the Dame will end up "living happily ever after" with either the Heroine's kindly old widowed Father/Uncle/Guardian or with the miraculously reformed Baddie.
Often the Hero's Mother or Aunt, the Dame is normally a friend to either or both the Hero and the Heroine. If unmarried then the Dame will end up "living happily ever after" with either the Heroine's kindly old widowed Father/Uncle/Guardian or with the miraculously reformed Baddie.
More fantastic Pantomime costumes!
This video by "lmvpvideo" is one of my favourite Pantomime compilations.
You can see more on their website
she so lovely?
The Pantomime Baddy
Pantomime Baddies include: Captain Hook, The Stepmother in Cinderella, Abanazer in Aladdin
The Baddy is a nasty character who either has designs on the Heroine, is jealous of the other characters or who wants to achieve world domination - sometimes all three! During the course of the story, he (if it's a male baddy) will usually end up wooing the Dame in order to further his ambitions.
Because it is important to have a happy ending, the Baddie is always defeated and then miraculously turned into a good person following the casting of a spell by the Fairy. He often ends up marrying the Dame.
Because it is important to have a happy ending, the Baddie is always defeated and then miraculously turned into a good person following the casting of a spell by the Fairy. He often ends up marrying the Dame.
The Pantomime Fairy
The Pantomime fairies include: Fairy Tinkle, Fairy Liquid, Fairy Nuff, The Fairy Godmother
Every Panto has a Fairy. More usually her task is that of a Narrator - she will link scenes and keep the plot moving. Some are comedy parts and some are straight. Often the Fairy will speak in rhymes, which actually makes line learning a lot easier.
Cinderella is a very popular Pantomime
This scene is a typical illustration of how you do a "transformation scene". You start with an open stage, close the curtains and then some "magic happens". The children love it!
Cinderella Goes To The Ball
Pantomime animals
Pantomime animals include: The Cat in Dick Whittington, the Cow in Jack & The Beanstalk
Children in particular love to see an animal character, whether it be a cow, goose, bear or cat. Some of the "greats" started their careers by literally playing the backend of a horse - not much fun if the front end had curry before the show!
Many, many decades ago at the Hippodrome Theatre, Stockport, the front end of the horse was a young man named Charlie Chaplin.
Many, many decades ago at the Hippodrome Theatre, Stockport, the front end of the horse was a young man named Charlie Chaplin.
A favourite Pantomime animal: The Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk
Featuring Popstar (well she was about 20 years ago) Toyah Wilcox
Jack and The Beanstalk promo
More about the Pantomime plot
Classic Pantomime scenes
Slapstick and Chase Scenes
Slapstick is a certain type of clownish physical comedy. It usually involves someone getting wet or covered in "custard" or "cream". It is even funnier if some members of the audience get slightly wet or better still, believe right up until the last second that they are going to get a soaking - of course they never do, well not often anyway!
Slapstick scenes have to be very carefully choreographed as a wet stage is a dangerous stage. Usually, once the main protagonists have left the scene, one of the chorus or even a main character will come onto the stage and mop the stage dry while talking to the audience.
Front of Tabs
Tabs scenes, or 'transformation scenes' are played out in front of the main curtains when they are closed. They help move the story on between the different sections of the pantomime and also cover scenery changes.
Slapstick is a certain type of clownish physical comedy. It usually involves someone getting wet or covered in "custard" or "cream". It is even funnier if some members of the audience get slightly wet or better still, believe right up until the last second that they are going to get a soaking - of course they never do, well not often anyway!
Slapstick scenes have to be very carefully choreographed as a wet stage is a dangerous stage. Usually, once the main protagonists have left the scene, one of the chorus or even a main character will come onto the stage and mop the stage dry while talking to the audience.
Front of Tabs
Tabs scenes, or 'transformation scenes' are played out in front of the main curtains when they are closed. They help move the story on between the different sections of the pantomime and also cover scenery changes.
Traditional Pantomime scene - Front of Tabs
A unique and very "cheeky" rendition of a traditional Pantomime song
This is a classic example of a "Front of Tabs" scene in an Amateur production with adult humour that goes "over the heads" of the children. If you are not too distracted by the risque action, then you may just hear the scenery being changed behind the curtains.
If I were not upon the stage
The Pantomime Script
Oh my word - the Pantomime script can be very naughty!
In recent times Disney films have adopted the traditional Panto practise of including jokes that go straight over the heads of the younger members of the audience, while bringing a grin to the faces of the adults. Saucy double entendres are also the norm in Panto. The most famous being uttered by Fairy Tinkle in one of the earliest performances of Dick Whittington in London:
Indeed Dick Whittington, by it's very name, ensures the potential for scriptwriters and cast (who frequently ad-lib and deviate from the script) to have a lot of slightly risque fun with their lines. Other examples being:
Dick Whittington to his cat: "I am so lucky to have such a lovely pussy" - remember Dick is played by a female!
Another one from Fairy Tinkle: "How can I help my poor Dick?"
And as for the Dame: "Oh my, that looks like a powerful tool!"
In the original Panto Script for Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Goldi's mother Sadie owns a circus, which gives plenty of opportunity for references to be made about "Sadie's ring", rather than circus ring.
Some of the humour is more obvious. Children love it when characters belch or break wind! And of course bottom jokes go down a storm:
Widow Twanky, with her back to Wishy Washy, bending over a laundry basket:
"Oh I must do the washing. I have got a little behind"
Wishy Washy:
"I wouldn't say that from where I'm standing"
The Golden Harp in Jack and the Beanstalk as Jack grabs her: "Heeelp, heeelp. I've been taken from behind!"
"Twenty miles from London and no sign of Dick"
Indeed Dick Whittington, by it's very name, ensures the potential for scriptwriters and cast (who frequently ad-lib and deviate from the script) to have a lot of slightly risque fun with their lines. Other examples being:
Dick Whittington to his cat: "I am so lucky to have such a lovely pussy" - remember Dick is played by a female!
Another one from Fairy Tinkle: "How can I help my poor Dick?"
And as for the Dame: "Oh my, that looks like a powerful tool!"
In the original Panto Script for Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Goldi's mother Sadie owns a circus, which gives plenty of opportunity for references to be made about "Sadie's ring", rather than circus ring.
Some of the humour is more obvious. Children love it when characters belch or break wind! And of course bottom jokes go down a storm:
Widow Twanky, with her back to Wishy Washy, bending over a laundry basket:
"Oh I must do the washing. I have got a little behind"
Wishy Washy:
"I wouldn't say that from where I'm standing"
The Golden Harp in Jack and the Beanstalk as Jack grabs her: "Heeelp, heeelp. I've been taken from behind!"
Audience participation - another tradition of Pantomime
Interaction with the Pantomime audience is positively encouraged
Audience participation is probably the most important part of British pantomime tradition. Even the most serious and mature members of the audience, suddenly become uninhibited in their enthusiasm to join in.
The audience is actively encouraged to boo the villain whenever he or she enters and argue with the Dame. Heckling is also encouraged and can lead to some hilarious ad-libs from the cast.
Here's another typical example of involving the audience:
Ugly sister: "I'm much prettier than Cinderella"
Audience: "Oh no you're not!"
Ugly sister: "Oh yes I am!"
Audience: "Oh no you're not!"
This will happen frequently with a variety of lines throughout the show and it is up to the Actors how long to keep it going before they go back to the script.
No Panto is complete without the "It's/he's/she's behind you moments". Either on stage or "front of tabs", the children are asked by one of the main characters to let them know if a ghost/spider/gorilla or anything else appears.
There follows a classic scene where gradually each character is frightened away until only the Dame is left with the monster. The monster always ends up being scared off by the Dame - you have to see it, to understand it!
The audience is actively encouraged to boo the villain whenever he or she enters and argue with the Dame. Heckling is also encouraged and can lead to some hilarious ad-libs from the cast.
Here's another typical example of involving the audience:
Ugly sister: "I'm much prettier than Cinderella"
Audience: "Oh no you're not!"
Ugly sister: "Oh yes I am!"
Audience: "Oh no you're not!"
This will happen frequently with a variety of lines throughout the show and it is up to the Actors how long to keep it going before they go back to the script.
No Panto is complete without the "It's/he's/she's behind you moments". Either on stage or "front of tabs", the children are asked by one of the main characters to let them know if a ghost/spider/gorilla or anything else appears.
There follows a classic scene where gradually each character is frightened away until only the Dame is left with the monster. The monster always ends up being scared off by the Dame - you have to see it, to understand it!
More Pantomime audience participation - It's Behind You!
Great example of audience participation
This clip is a brilliant example of "It's behind you" and the children really getting carried away in their attempts to warn Dick (oo errrr) that the Baddy is about.
Wakefield theatre royal Dick Whittington
Pantomime News
Pantomime headlines on the web
- CELEBRITY CAST FOR WEBSTER PANTO
- By Jennifer Newton THE CELEBRITY cast of the Webster Theatre's first professional pantomime of Aladdin has been unveiled. 'I'm a Celebrity' and Dollar star ...
- Pop review: Wild Beasts, Two Dancers
- Reaction to Wild Beasts' 2008 debut, Limbo, Panto, tended to diverge along the lines of those who welcomed prolonged spells of "hooting and howling" from ...
- Emails and letters
- ... fashion designers and tailors at your fingertips, you'd get your mum to make your stage outfit like you're taking part in the primary school panto. ...
- Outside Edge
- At Gateshead last week he set a world record of 13.23sec running the 100m ? as one half of a panto horse. But he still came second behind his partner Paul ...
Pantomime Facts
Most popular pantomimes
Peter Pan and Cinderella
First Pantos in Britain
Harlequin Sorcerer, 22 December 1716, Lincoln's Inn Theatre was the first Panto ever performed
In 1773 the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane presented Jack the Giant Killer for the first time
The first Panto production of Cinderella was at Drury Lane in 1804.
Most famous Dame
Sir Ian McKellen surprised everyone when it was announced that he would play Widow Twanky in the Old Vic's production of Aladdin. The production broke the theatre's box-office record.
Most profitable panto
At the Birmingham Hippodrome the 2007 production of Aladdin grossed more than £1,750,000 in five weeks. It starred John Barrowman, Daleks, and a 3D genie, which cost £140,000 to develop
Peter Pan and Cinderella
First Pantos in Britain
Harlequin Sorcerer, 22 December 1716, Lincoln's Inn Theatre was the first Panto ever performed
In 1773 the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane presented Jack the Giant Killer for the first time
The first Panto production of Cinderella was at Drury Lane in 1804.
Most famous Dame
Sir Ian McKellen surprised everyone when it was announced that he would play Widow Twanky in the Old Vic's production of Aladdin. The production broke the theatre's box-office record.
Most profitable panto
At the Birmingham Hippodrome the 2007 production of Aladdin grossed more than £1,750,000 in five weeks. It starred John Barrowman, Daleks, and a 3D genie, which cost £140,000 to develop
Classic Pantomime Double Entendres
In French the phrase "double entendre" means double meaning and generally these days it means an innocent word or phrase that has an alternative bawdy or "indelicate" meaning.
While Panto scripts thrive on double entendres, the internet is full of examples. If you Google "double entendre", there's a huge number of websites that include the following:
1. Pat Glenn, weightlifting commentator -
'And this is Georgiana from Bulgaria. I saw her snatch this morning and it was amazing!'
2. New Zealand Rugby Commentator -
'Andrew Mehrtens loves it when Daryl Gibson comes inside of him.'
3. Ted Walsh - Horse Racing Commentator -
'This is really a lovely horse. I once rode her mother.'
4. Harry Carpenter at the Oxford-Cambridge boat race 1977 - 'Ah, isn't that nice. The wife of the Cambridge President is kissing the Cox of the Oxford crew.'
5. US PGA Commentator - 'One of the reasons Arnie (Arnold Palmer) is playing so well is that, before each tee shot, his wife takes out his balls and kisses them .. Oh my god!! What have I just said??'
6. Carenza Lewis about finding food in the Middle Ages on 'Time Team Live' said:
'You'd eat beaver if you could get it.'
While Panto scripts thrive on double entendres, the internet is full of examples. If you Google "double entendre", there's a huge number of websites that include the following:
1. Pat Glenn, weightlifting commentator -
'And this is Georgiana from Bulgaria. I saw her snatch this morning and it was amazing!'
2. New Zealand Rugby Commentator -
'Andrew Mehrtens loves it when Daryl Gibson comes inside of him.'
3. Ted Walsh - Horse Racing Commentator -
'This is really a lovely horse. I once rode her mother.'
4. Harry Carpenter at the Oxford-Cambridge boat race 1977 - 'Ah, isn't that nice. The wife of the Cambridge President is kissing the Cox of the Oxford crew.'
5. US PGA Commentator - 'One of the reasons Arnie (Arnold Palmer) is playing so well is that, before each tee shot, his wife takes out his balls and kisses them .. Oh my god!! What have I just said??'
6. Carenza Lewis about finding food in the Middle Ages on 'Time Team Live' said:
'You'd eat beaver if you could get it.'
Do you know what Pantomime is?
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More Pantomime Double Entendres
7. A female news anchor who, the day after it was supposed to have snowed and didn't, turned to the weatherman and asked, 'So Bob, where's that eight inches you promised me last night?'
Not only did HE have to leave the set, but half the crew did too, because they were laughing so much!
8. Steve Ryder covering the US Masters:
'Ballesteros felt much better today after a 69 yesterday.'
9. Clair Frisby talking about a jumbo hot dog on Look North said: 'There's nothing like a big hot sausage inside you on a cold night like this.'
10. Mike Hallett discussing missed snooker shots on Sky Sports: 'Stephen Hendry jumps on Steve Davis's misses every chance he gets.'
11. Michael Buerk on watching Phillipa Forrester cuddle up to a male astronomer for warmth during BBC1's UK eclipse coverage remarked:
'They seem cold out there, they're rubbing each other and he's only come in his shorts.'
12. Ken Brown commentating on golfer Nick Faldo and his caddie Fanny Sunneson lining-up shots at the Scottish Open: 'Some weeks Nick likes to use Fanny, other weeks he prefers to do it by himself".
Not only did HE have to leave the set, but half the crew did too, because they were laughing so much!
8. Steve Ryder covering the US Masters:
'Ballesteros felt much better today after a 69 yesterday.'
9. Clair Frisby talking about a jumbo hot dog on Look North said: 'There's nothing like a big hot sausage inside you on a cold night like this.'
10. Mike Hallett discussing missed snooker shots on Sky Sports: 'Stephen Hendry jumps on Steve Davis's misses every chance he gets.'
11. Michael Buerk on watching Phillipa Forrester cuddle up to a male astronomer for warmth during BBC1's UK eclipse coverage remarked:
'They seem cold out there, they're rubbing each other and he's only come in his shorts.'
12. Ken Brown commentating on golfer Nick Faldo and his caddie Fanny Sunneson lining-up shots at the Scottish Open: 'Some weeks Nick likes to use Fanny, other weeks he prefers to do it by himself".
Actors and Celebs join in Pantomime
In the mid 20th century, British Panto declined. However, during the 60s and 70s the popularity of Panto was given a huge boost as well known celebrities became more involved. I remember going to see Cinderella and Cliff Richard was starring as Buttons.
George Takei, Mr Sulu from Star Trek, was a genie in Aladdin in 1987. When he shouted "yoo-hoo", the audience responded " yoo-hoo Sulu".
In 2004 Pantomime received a huge boost when Sir Ian McKellen - best-known for playing Shakespearean roles and Gandalf in Lord of the Rings - stunned the theatre-going world when he announced that playing Widow Twankey was one of his lifelong ambitions and then went on to play the part. Sir Ian said:
"Pantomime has everything theatrical - song, dance, verse, slapstick, soliloquy, audience participation, spectacle, cross-dressing and a good plot, strong on morality and romance. What more could you want for a family outing? I believe there's more pure theatre in a pantomime than you get in Shakespeare, and if it works, it's unforgettable"
More recently stars from around the world are descending on the UK during Panto season, including it seems most of the cast from the Australian soaps, Neighbours and Home and Away. In 2007 well know American actors agreed to take part: Henry Winkler and Patrick Duffy.
Henry Winkler (The Fonz in Happy Days) took on the role of Captain Hook in Peter Pan. Patrick Duffy (Bobby Ewing in Dallas) played the role of Baron Hardup in Peter Pan. Paul Michael Glazer (Starsky) has also played Captain Hook.
Both Winkler and Duffy admitted they did not know what panto was when the job offers came their way and had to have a crash course in understanding the tradition AND the script. Patrick Duffy said: "There are references that are topical and words that are not used anywhere on planet Earth except the UK."
Despite the training Winkler said: "They're still explaining it to me. I've had a week of rehearsal, my brain is numb."
George Takei, Mr Sulu from Star Trek, was a genie in Aladdin in 1987. When he shouted "yoo-hoo", the audience responded " yoo-hoo Sulu".
In 2004 Pantomime received a huge boost when Sir Ian McKellen - best-known for playing Shakespearean roles and Gandalf in Lord of the Rings - stunned the theatre-going world when he announced that playing Widow Twankey was one of his lifelong ambitions and then went on to play the part. Sir Ian said:
"Pantomime has everything theatrical - song, dance, verse, slapstick, soliloquy, audience participation, spectacle, cross-dressing and a good plot, strong on morality and romance. What more could you want for a family outing? I believe there's more pure theatre in a pantomime than you get in Shakespeare, and if it works, it's unforgettable"
More recently stars from around the world are descending on the UK during Panto season, including it seems most of the cast from the Australian soaps, Neighbours and Home and Away. In 2007 well know American actors agreed to take part: Henry Winkler and Patrick Duffy.
Henry Winkler (The Fonz in Happy Days) took on the role of Captain Hook in Peter Pan. Patrick Duffy (Bobby Ewing in Dallas) played the role of Baron Hardup in Peter Pan. Paul Michael Glazer (Starsky) has also played Captain Hook.
Both Winkler and Duffy admitted they did not know what panto was when the job offers came their way and had to have a crash course in understanding the tradition AND the script. Patrick Duffy said: "There are references that are topical and words that are not used anywhere on planet Earth except the UK."
Despite the training Winkler said: "They're still explaining it to me. I've had a week of rehearsal, my brain is numb."
Brian Blessed - Classical Actor, Explorer, Author and Pantomime Baddy
Brian Blessed explains the Pantomime Baddy
Probably one of Britain's best recognised actors, Brian Blessed is also known internationally thanks to his film roles, such as Vultan in Flash Gordon and when he played Kevin Costner's father in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves. He also provided the voice for Clayton, the hunter, in Disney's Tarzan.
On TV Blessed played the part of Caesar Augustus in the BBC series I Claudius, for which he won the New York Critics Award. He has also played numerous roles on stage including Claudius in Hamlet.
Brian Blessed's voice is instantly recognisable and ideal for that of a Panto Villain. He also has an intuitive understanding as to what makes a good villain and how to interact with the audience.
In the following video, Blessed brilliantly summarises what Panto is all about.
On TV Blessed played the part of Caesar Augustus in the BBC series I Claudius, for which he won the New York Critics Award. He has also played numerous roles on stage including Claudius in Hamlet.
Brian Blessed's voice is instantly recognisable and ideal for that of a Panto Villain. He also has an intuitive understanding as to what makes a good villain and how to interact with the audience.
In the following video, Blessed brilliantly summarises what Panto is all about.
Actor Brian Blessed talking about Pantomime and playing Captain Hook
A brilliant Pantomime villain
A Blessed good panto on the way
Sir Ian McKellan - that well known Shakespearean Actor stars as Widow Twankey!!
Another favourite Pantomime - Jack and the Beanstalk, starring John Barrowman
John Barrowman regularly appears in Pantomime
Jack and the Beanstalk - John Barrowman
Silly Pantomime character names
Another great feature of Pantomime
No traditional Panto would be complete without silly character names. Here are some favourites - some will need explanantion as they are topical to the UK.
Many Pantos feature policemen:
Nabbit and Grabham
PC World (a chain of IT suppliers)
Then there's the Villain's henchmen:
Sage and Onions
Pie and Peas
Smash and Grab
Burke and Head (Birkenhead is an English town)
Mumbo and Jumbo
Bubble and Squeak (a traditional British dish)
Bangers and Mash (ditto)
The servants: Mop and Brushup
Fran Gipani - the mafia baker
Health and Safety - the Civil Servants
Privates Willing and Able
And not forgetting the bold and fearless stallion: Fluffikins
Many Pantos feature policemen:
Nabbit and Grabham
PC World (a chain of IT suppliers)
Then there's the Villain's henchmen:
Sage and Onions
Pie and Peas
Smash and Grab
Burke and Head (Birkenhead is an English town)
Mumbo and Jumbo
Bubble and Squeak (a traditional British dish)
Bangers and Mash (ditto)
The servants: Mop and Brushup
Fran Gipani - the mafia baker
Health and Safety - the Civil Servants
Privates Willing and Able
And not forgetting the bold and fearless stallion: Fluffikins
Are Pantomimes becoming too PC?
The modern Pantomime struggles under the weight of Political Correctness
Traditional favourites, such as Robinson Crusoe and Sinbad, have either been extensively rewritten or abandoned entirely by Panto producers, who fear that the mention of "natives" and "cannibals" will cause offence on racial grounds. The versions of Robinson Crusoe that have survived tend to have the hero befriended by pirates, rather than politically incorrect natives. This is made easier by the popularity of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" trilogy. However, the character of Man Friday is more likely to be white than black.The original script of Goldilocks and the Three bears contains references to Gypsies, which is a very sensitive topic in the UK and these days the script may be considered to be racist by some people.
Pantos have always been topical with references to local characters and places and what is going on in the news. Audiences are also being offered updated versions of many traditional Pantos which carry loaded messages about school bullying and environmental issues.
Producers are also wary of including anything that may be too sinister or frightening. Shows such as Hansel and Gretel and Babes in the Wood, which used to include scenes in which children were abducted, are either struggling to be shown or are being rewritten to avoid complaints from over-sensitive parents. In a production of Jack and the Beanstalk, at the Riverfront theatre, Newport, in 2007, the Giant kidnapped the village's livestock rather than the children.
The consequence of this PC climate is that audiences are left with a narrower range of productions to choose from. Tony Gibbs, the chief executive of the National Operatic and Dramatic Association, which has more than 2,500 members, said: "There is a dilemma and a tension between the need to stereotype villainous characters for ease of identification and the fear of vilifying someone because of their race," he said.
Ian Liston, the artistic director of the Hiss and Boo theatre company, which produced five shows in 2007, said about his production of Snow White: "there was a serious exchange of letters in the local paper between us and an audience member who was angry that we had used dwarves in the show. He said that it was demeaning and that we should have used jockeys instead. I retorted that that would be demeaning to jockeys. There comes a limit to how much you can do."
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Peter Pan
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The Classic Fairy Tales: (Norton Critical Editions)
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The Complete Grimm's Fairy Tales
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Disney Princess: Cinderella/Snow White/Sleeping Beauty (Disney's Read Along Collection)
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Pantomime copyright
Pantomime scripts writers be aware!
You might think that rewriting a fairy tale that has been in the public domain for hundreds of years would not have any legal pitfalls. However, if you are thinking about writing a panto about Snow White and seven dwarves called Doc, Happy, Sleepy, Sneezy, Bashful, Grumpy and Dopey then think again!
The mighty Disney Corporation will bring the expertise of its vast legal department down on your head. You can use the name Snow White as Disney did not invent the name or the story, but they own the copyright to the Dwarves' names that were used in the sartoon so just DO NOT use them.
One of the most popular Pantos is Peter Pan but up until recently it has been difficult for Amateur Theatre Companies to stage performances. Apart from the flying scenes, which require expensive specialist equipment (not to mention increased insurance and health and safety issues) the story is covered by a special copyright law. J M Barrie, the author died in 1937 and he bequeathed all the royalties from performances of Peter Pan and the sale of associated goods to The Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children. The hospital also had the right to control how the story and images from Peter Pan were used.
Normally copyright expires 70 years after the death of the author but in the UK a special exception has been made in this case. While Great Ormond Street Hospital can no longer control the use to which the story is put, it will continue to receive royalties from the sale of anything associated with Peter Pan. Buying the license to perform the story makes the costs of staging the show beyond the reach of most Amateur companies and so the majority of performances will take place in professional theatres that could guarantee sufficient box office receipts to cover the cost.
The mighty Disney Corporation will bring the expertise of its vast legal department down on your head. You can use the name Snow White as Disney did not invent the name or the story, but they own the copyright to the Dwarves' names that were used in the sartoon so just DO NOT use them.
One of the most popular Pantos is Peter Pan but up until recently it has been difficult for Amateur Theatre Companies to stage performances. Apart from the flying scenes, which require expensive specialist equipment (not to mention increased insurance and health and safety issues) the story is covered by a special copyright law. J M Barrie, the author died in 1937 and he bequeathed all the royalties from performances of Peter Pan and the sale of associated goods to The Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children. The hospital also had the right to control how the story and images from Peter Pan were used.
Normally copyright expires 70 years after the death of the author but in the UK a special exception has been made in this case. While Great Ormond Street Hospital can no longer control the use to which the story is put, it will continue to receive royalties from the sale of anything associated with Peter Pan. Buying the license to perform the story makes the costs of staging the show beyond the reach of most Amateur companies and so the majority of performances will take place in professional theatres that could guarantee sufficient box office receipts to cover the cost.
Peter Pan a pantomime that is often beyond the budget of amateur groups
This TV version of Peter Pan is full of British celebrities
Paul O Grady Panto Part1 20th December 06
Must haves for every little Disney Pantomime Princess
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Pretty Pretty Princess Cinderella Edition
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Memory Game - Disney Princess Edition
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Disney Princess Dream Journey DVD Game
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Disney Princess Figurine Set
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Must haves for every Neverland Pantomime hero or heroine
Walt Disney's Peter Pan Collectible Figure Set
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Indian Chief Camp - Disney Peter Pan Pirates Heroes
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Halloween Sensations Child's Peter Pan Costume, Medium
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Kids Peter Pan Costume - Child Small
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Toddler Peter Pan Halloween Costume (Size: 2-4T)
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Is this the most ridiculous example of censorship?
Back to Dick again - ooo err!
From article published on: CAPC
A television presenter e-mailed 30 primary (elementary) schools in his local area asking them if they would be interested in a free performance of a scene from the pantomime Dick Whittington for their assemblies. When he only received one reply he called some of the schools to check that they had received the e-mail. It turns out that the e-mail filtering service had blocked the e-mails because of the pantomime's title!
A television presenter e-mailed 30 primary (elementary) schools in his local area asking them if they would be interested in a free performance of a scene from the pantomime Dick Whittington for their assemblies. When he only received one reply he called some of the schools to check that they had received the e-mail. It turns out that the e-mail filtering service had blocked the e-mails because of the pantomime's title!
What's your favourite pantomime?
1
Cinderella
It has everything. Humour, pathos and TWO Dames!1 point
2
Aladdin
1 point
3
Jack and The Beanstalk
0 points
4
Peter Pan
0 points
Fancy Dress Outfits for the little pantomime heroine in your life
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Disguise Belle Costume
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Health and Safety is another issue
Britain's health-and-safety culture is also making an unwelcome impact on some shows with Producers and performers worrying that their on-stage antics could expose them to legal action.
In 2007, the producers of Peter Pan in Cornwall had to do battle with health and safety officers who wanted the children in the audience to wear hard hats during the flying scenes.
In Preston, the cast were told they could not throw sweets out to the children in the audience in case someone got hurt - this may have had something to do with Dame Edna Everidge (Barry Humphries) being sued by someone in a theatre audience who was hit by one of his trademark gladiolii, which he used to throw out to his adoring fans.
In Worthing, the Borough Council advised a pantomime cast not to throw sweets to the audience because of food allergy fears, particularly in case nut allergy sufferers were in the audience.
In 2007, the producers of Peter Pan in Cornwall had to do battle with health and safety officers who wanted the children in the audience to wear hard hats during the flying scenes.
In Preston, the cast were told they could not throw sweets out to the children in the audience in case someone got hurt - this may have had something to do with Dame Edna Everidge (Barry Humphries) being sued by someone in a theatre audience who was hit by one of his trademark gladiolii, which he used to throw out to his adoring fans.
In Worthing, the Borough Council advised a pantomime cast not to throw sweets to the audience because of food allergy fears, particularly in case nut allergy sufferers were in the audience.
Fancy Dress Outfits for the little boy pantomime hero in your life
Great fun for those Christmas and New Year parties with a Pantomime theme
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Disney's Pirates Captain Jack Standard Costume: Boy's Size 4-6
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Captain Jack Sparrow Prestige Premium Child Pirates of the Caribbean Costume
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Jack Sparrow Pirate Child Costume
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Classic Pantomime lines
Dame: Did you know I once had some knickers made out of a Union Jack?
Wishee: Weren't they uncomfortable?
Dame: No. Not once I'd taken the flagpole out.
Sadie: Oh but I love the Circus! I remember I once tried to make a jaguar jump through a hoop-it was nearly the death of me...... The wheels got caught in the hoop.
Servant: (interrupting Squire)Telephone call for you Squire. (hands handset to Squire)
Squire: (listens briefly then speaks into phone) You don't say! (further pause) You don't say!! (further pause) YOU DON'T SAY !!
Gives handset back to Servant
Servant: Who was it Squire?
Squire: He didn't say!!
(Drums: boom-boom).
"Why are pirates called pirates? Because they arrr..."
Muddles: I went to the doctor, because I keep seeing things. One minute it's Mickey Mouse, the next it's Donald Duck. And the doctor said "how long have you been having these Disney spells!"
Grand Vizier: The King needs heirs
Queen: He's got heirs - it's just the way he combs them!
"Have you seen a monster?"
"No, not yeti"
Two characters are moving a piano
First character: Do you know the piano's on my foot?
Second character: Nah, mate. You hum it and I'll play it
Classic slapstick. Two idiots are mending or building something:
First character: When I nod my head, you hit it"
Second character, who has a hammer: Well you can guess what happens can't you?
Wishee: Weren't they uncomfortable?
Dame: No. Not once I'd taken the flagpole out.
Sadie: Oh but I love the Circus! I remember I once tried to make a jaguar jump through a hoop-it was nearly the death of me...... The wheels got caught in the hoop.
Servant: (interrupting Squire)Telephone call for you Squire. (hands handset to Squire)
Squire: (listens briefly then speaks into phone) You don't say! (further pause) You don't say!! (further pause) YOU DON'T SAY !!
Gives handset back to Servant
Servant: Who was it Squire?
Squire: He didn't say!!
(Drums: boom-boom).
"Why are pirates called pirates? Because they arrr..."
Muddles: I went to the doctor, because I keep seeing things. One minute it's Mickey Mouse, the next it's Donald Duck. And the doctor said "how long have you been having these Disney spells!"
Grand Vizier: The King needs heirs
Queen: He's got heirs - it's just the way he combs them!
"Have you seen a monster?"
"No, not yeti"
Two characters are moving a piano
First character: Do you know the piano's on my foot?
Second character: Nah, mate. You hum it and I'll play it
Classic slapstick. Two idiots are mending or building something:
First character: When I nod my head, you hit it"
Second character, who has a hammer: Well you can guess what happens can't you?
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Does Pantomime have a future?
In the UK changes to the Saturday evening BBC TV scheduling can probably take some of the credit for contributing to the increasing popularity of Panto. With the return of Dr Who and newer programmes like Robin Hood, families are sitting down together to enjoy "family entertainment". Going to the theatre as a family is an extension of this activity and that after all is what Panto is all about.
The other main appeal is that the large professional productions feature very well known celebrities, even in the towns outside the major cities. What American has heard of Woking? It is a town just 20 minutes from London by train and that is where Patrick Duffy appeared in Cinderella in 2007. It's not often you get a star of "Dallas" visiting a provincial town!
The amateur productions are popular in their local communities, because most of the audience know some, if not all, of the cast. There is a definite appeal in watching your best mate totally send themselves up wearing an enormous padded bra, in a ridiculous costume, teetering around in high heels.
Kevin Wood, Chief Executive of Family First Entertainment (FFE), and a Panto producer with 20 years' experience has some very definite plans for the next few years. "We're going to be bringing major, major Hollywood talent over" he says. "And there's only one thing standing in the way of us taking panto over to America. They don't know about it. That's the only impediment. The Americans are already here. But when Panto hits America? Now that will be a happy ending."
So is Panto here to stay? Oh yes, it is!
The other main appeal is that the large professional productions feature very well known celebrities, even in the towns outside the major cities. What American has heard of Woking? It is a town just 20 minutes from London by train and that is where Patrick Duffy appeared in Cinderella in 2007. It's not often you get a star of "Dallas" visiting a provincial town!
The amateur productions are popular in their local communities, because most of the audience know some, if not all, of the cast. There is a definite appeal in watching your best mate totally send themselves up wearing an enormous padded bra, in a ridiculous costume, teetering around in high heels.
Kevin Wood, Chief Executive of Family First Entertainment (FFE), and a Panto producer with 20 years' experience has some very definite plans for the next few years. "We're going to be bringing major, major Hollywood talent over" he says. "And there's only one thing standing in the way of us taking panto over to America. They don't know about it. That's the only impediment. The Americans are already here. But when Panto hits America? Now that will be a happy ending."
So is Panto here to stay? Oh yes, it is!
Ladies Pantomime costumes for those Christmas and New Year Fancy Dress parties
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Men's Pantomime Costumes for those Christmas and New Year fancy dress parties
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Adult Peter Pan Costume Hat
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Captain Jack Sparrow Hat With Beaded Braids - Deluxe (Adult) (Pirate)
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Men's Officially Licensed Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean Costume Captain Jack Sparrow Outfit
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Mens Costume Officially Licensed Disneys Movie Pirates of the Caribbean Captain Jack Sparrow Outfit
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Latest Pantomime News - Christmas 2008
John Barrowman - from Torchwood to Sherwood
STOP PRESS!
According to the Daily Mail, TV star John Barrowman is rumoured to be in line to receive a huge payment for his appearance in a six week run of the panto Robin Hood at the Birmingham (UK)Hippodrome. The star of Dr Who and Torchwood is thought to have been offered £270,000 (approx $494,000)!!!
Barrowman is a veteran of West End shows, including Phantom of the Opera, Chicago and Sunset Boulevard, but he is perhaps best known to British audiences for his television roles.
The exhausting schedule means that Barrowman will appear in 73 shows during the six week run, often with more than one performance a day. In 2007 he appeared as Aladdin at the Birmingham Hippodrome, which has the reputation of producing Pantos that are the most lavish and the most costly to stage in the UK.
This year sees a giant sized robot appearing in Sherwood Forest. A robot, in Sherwood Forest? Well that's Panto for you!
John Barrowman photoshoot for Robin Hood
There is some hilarious footage here, including a huge robot making a Monty Python joke....
Robin Hood uncut
Australian Soap Stars in UK Pantomimes 2008
And buy Panto tickets online
- Neighbours: The Perfect Blend | Panto 2008
-
If you like the Australian Soap "Neighbours", then here's where some of the stars will be appearing in Panto in 2008 - Buy Panto tickets online
- Find and buy Pantomime event tickets at Ticketmaster.co.uk
Has the Credit Crunch hit ticket sales?
It depends where you live
Oh no it hasn't!
According to The Daily Telegraph:
The traditional pantomime has beaten the credit crisis with record advance bookings for this Christmas season as people look to escape the economic gloom. The paper reports that John Barrowman's Robin Hood at the Birmingham Hippodrome was the fastest selling Panto with £3 million seats sold for the five week run. Approx 1.6 million people will have seen pantomime producer Qdos' 21 shows in venues all over the UK, including Aberdeen, Cardiff, Hull and Plymouth.Ticket sales have totalled approx £18 million ($36 million)!
Nick Thomas, the chairman of Qdos said he thought the credit crunch had actually spurred sales: "Panto is like turkey and Christmas crackers. They become even more popular when times are tough. It is about escapism, it is about feel-good, and being cheered-up. It is good wholesome family entertainment."
A total of 800 actors, dancers and backstage staff are working on the company's 21 shows in productions including Aladdin, Cinderella, Goldilocks, Jack and the Beanstalk and Dick Whittington.
Oh yes it has!
Bristol - Downturn hits Panto tickets sales according to The Bristol Evening Post
According to The Daily Telegraph:
The traditional pantomime has beaten the credit crisis with record advance bookings for this Christmas season as people look to escape the economic gloom. The paper reports that John Barrowman's Robin Hood at the Birmingham Hippodrome was the fastest selling Panto with £3 million seats sold for the five week run. Approx 1.6 million people will have seen pantomime producer Qdos' 21 shows in venues all over the UK, including Aberdeen, Cardiff, Hull and Plymouth.Ticket sales have totalled approx £18 million ($36 million)!
Nick Thomas, the chairman of Qdos said he thought the credit crunch had actually spurred sales: "Panto is like turkey and Christmas crackers. They become even more popular when times are tough. It is about escapism, it is about feel-good, and being cheered-up. It is good wholesome family entertainment."
A total of 800 actors, dancers and backstage staff are working on the company's 21 shows in productions including Aladdin, Cinderella, Goldilocks, Jack and the Beanstalk and Dick Whittington.
Oh yes it has!
Bristol - Downturn hits Panto tickets sales according to The Bristol Evening Post
Thanks for the help with this Pantomime lens
Many lenses I have created have involved some new learning on my part. This is the first lens where I have included illustrations from AllPosters.com
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Thank you!
- Enslaved by Faeries
- Gave me some very clear info about how to use AllPosters.com
- Michelle Willow
- Also helped me unravel the mysteries of using AllPosters.com
If you liked this lens, then you may like my Christmas lenses
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Twelve Days of a Green & Ethical Christmas
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Acknowledgements, references and credits
This lens involved a lot of research, to supplement my own knowledge and experience, particulary with regard to the history and origins of Panto.
These are the websites I used to pull together a summary of all in the information that is widely available on the internet:
These are the websites I used to pull together a summary of all in the information that is widely available on the internet:
- It's Behind You
- This site has a lot about the history and origins of Panto in the UK
- Limelight Scripts
- Not only does this company provide Panto scripts, it too has a lot of information about the history of Panto
- The Daily Telegraph
- This is a newspaper article, which I saw when it was first published, that discusses how far Political Correctness has affected traditional pantos
- Great Ormond Street Hospital
- Website of the main beneficiary of the royalties from Peter Pan
Please stop by and say hello!
And if you have time to give this lens a star rating I would be very grateful
Do you have any favourite panto jokes. Let me know and I may add them into the modules for this lens.
Lensmaster
C-Joy wrote...
I would LOVE to see a panto! I would doubly love to see a panto starring John Barrowman (oh yes I would - slapping my thigh)!
Posted April 27, 2009
alexkazam wrote...
What a brilliant lens! You have certainly done your research- thanks for those wonderful youtube video links, too. I was involved in am. dram. operating sound cues for "Toad of toad hall" and decided that it was much more fun being on the stage!
The audience participation in pantomime is what makes it so very enjoyable.
Posted December 10, 2008
bgamall wrote...
Ah, this British pantomime is obscure! Not to be confused with mime, lol.
Posted November 28, 2008
Who is AJ?
I am very proud to have been awarded lens of the day for
Auditory Processing Disorder TWICE!
And then I got it for Twelve ways to have a green & ethical Christmas!
aj2008, aka AJ , has been a member since July 10 2008, has rated 2,086 lenses, favorited 404, and has created 52 lenses from scratch. AJ donates their royalties to Save the Children. This member's top-ranked page is "Bullying At Primary School". See all my lenses
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