Get ready for a twist on the traditional panto season! While most people associate pantomimes with the festive cheer of Christmas, there's a whole other world of panto magic waiting to be discovered beyond the holiday season.
The January Panto Phenomenon
In the depths of January, when the Christmas decorations are packed away and the new year blues set in, a unique opportunity arises for panto lovers. Several theaters across the UK keep the panto spirit alive, offering a much-needed boost of fun and entertainment when it's needed most.
Take, for instance, the Nottingham Playhouse, where their production of Sleeping Beauty runs until the weekend before Blue Monday, the supposedly most depressing day of the year. John Elkington, who has played the beloved Dame Nelly the Nanny for almost 30 years, sees January panto-goers as those who need an extra treat after being cooped up at home. It's a chance to extend the festive fun and keep the children entertained.
A Loyal Audience and a Demanding Gig
Elkington's dedication to his craft is admirable. He approaches each show as if his entire family were in the front row, ensuring the energy and enthusiasm remain high, even with a reduced number of shows in January. With about 40,000 people visiting the Nottingham Playhouse panto each year, it's a testament to the loyal and supportive audience that keeps coming back.
The Last Night Riot and Relaxed Performances
The riotous last night of the Nottingham panto, with its crew tricks and unexpected surprises, has become legendary. Audiences who have already seen the show return for a second time, eager to experience the mayhem. Elkington recalls a year when an enormous pillow fight broke out on stage, with 15 crew members and three band members joining in.
Nottingham Playhouse also offers relaxed and access performances in January, designed for smaller audiences and adapted to be quieter, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the panto experience.
The Scouse Christmas Carol Extends Its Run
At Liverpool's Royal Court, The Scouse Christmas Carol, originally scheduled to close this weekend, has been so popular that it will now run until January 24th. Executive producer Kevin Fearon, who is also the writer of the production, notes that many January bookings are from those who couldn't secure seats in December.
The panto at the Royal Court is more than just a show; it's an experience that captures the essence of the theater: great entertainment with a fantastic atmosphere. In the cold of January, when days are short and people are back at work, it offers a much-needed opportunity for a big night out and a chance to lift spirits.
A Tradition Beyond Christmas
Lucy Hayes, the writer and director of Jack and His Giant Stalk at Brick Lane Music Hall in London, has a unique take on the January panto. She describes it as a tradition in its own right, offering a fun and silly escape for those who may have more time and need more cheering up after the busy Christmas period.
Brick Lane Music Hall has become known for opening its panto right after most others have closed, offering a fresh and unique experience. Hayes believes it's a fun idea that surprises and delights audiences, especially with less competition for attention during the panto-stuffed month of December.
So, whether you're a panto enthusiast or a curious newcomer, consider exploring the world of January pantomimes. It's a chance to discover a different side of this beloved tradition and enjoy a unique and entertaining experience when you need it most.
