Panto season is fast approaching… oh no it isn’t! Oh yes, it is!

Going to a pantomime is often a child’s first exposure to theatre. They are a great family event to enjoy together during the festive season. A Pantomime has many classic traditions. The main male role is often played by a woman. A Pantomime always has a dame, a man dressed as a woman in an often-eccentric dress with very exaggerated make up. Although the story-lines are classic fairy-tales the jokes are always contemporary, bound to make you laugh your socks off! Audience participation is hugely encouraged during a Pantomime. So, you’ll find yourself easily getting involved amongst all the action. From shouting ‘He’s behind you’, ‘Oh no you’re not’ and booing loudly at the evil characters.
The end of the year simply wouldn’t be complete without going to see a pantomime.

To help you we’ve put together a list of some of our Pantomime picks for 2019.

London Palladium, 7^th December – 4^th January
If you are looking for a premium Pantomime then the London Palladium is for you. Qdos Entertainment is the world’s biggest pantomime producer. The production this year is Goldilocks and The Three bears starring regular headliners Julian Clary and Paul O Grady. Sophie Issacs stars as the title role who recently starred in ‘Heathers’ (Theatre Royal, Haymarket).

Fairfield Halls, Croydon 10^th December – 8^th January
After being refurbished the Fairfield Halls has reopened its doors to theatre goers. This year however the story of Cinderella will be held in the brand-new Phoenix Concert Hall. Starring Strictly come Dancing champion Ore Oduba, actor and comedian Tim Vine. It’s one not to be missed.

Churchill Theatre, Bromley 7^th December – 5^th January
Starring Pantomime royalty, Christopher Biggins as the iconic Widow Twankey. The Churchill theatre presents Aladdin, a classic tale of the ‘magic carpet ride’ that sees Aladdin and Jasmine enter a whole new world. This pantomime is guaranteed to bring plenty of festive magic.

Broadway Theatre, Catford 20^th -29^th December
With a star cast featuring Soul singing legend Mica Paris as the Fairy Godmother. Broadway Theatre present the tale of ‘Beauty and the Beast. The production features fun dance routines, plenty of jokes, slapstick comedy and heaps of Christmas magic.

We also appreciate that buying Pantomime tickets can be expensive so why not try some cheaper productions where you can still have lots of fun. The Beckenham Theatre Centre are performing Aladdin with tickets just £8! Help support your local amateur theatre group and let them put a smile on your face this Christmas.