Uploaded September 2024 | Updated September 2026, 3 days ago
How is pantomime evolving in theatres and how is it changing on television? And what is it about panto that tickles every member of the family at the same time? How much can other media steal from live, interactive and family theatre?
Pantomime is one of Britain’s most treasured traditions. An early introduction to live theatre for little ones and an excuse for everyone of any age to giggle, laugh, cheer, hiss, boo and be daft. It’s a dazzling, high camp, colourful and gloriously ridiculous piece of escapism on a winter’s day, far removed from real world worries.
When something ain’t broke, the crowds are roaring with laughter and the tills are ringing (many provincial theatres are utterly dependent on panto income) it’s easy to understand why producers and theatre managers didn’t meddle with the stories, routines and jokes that have been peddled for decades.
However, over the past five years pantomime seems to have gone through a revolution. ‘Black Lives Matter,’ ‘Me Too’ and big conversations on social media, press and via the UK Pantomime Association have questioned a few of the traditions, calling out cultural appropriation, lack of diversity and other offensive stereotypes and humour.
Pantomime continues with box office receipts rising every year and new stars being born all over the UK delighting family audiences in theatres and, thanks to the ongoing commitment from CBeebies, on television.
How is pantomime evolving in theatres and how is it changing on television? And what is it about panto that tickles every member of the family at the same time? How much can other media steal from live, interactive and family theatre?
Pantomime is one of Britain’s most treasured traditions. An early introduction to live theatre for little ones and an excuse for everyone of any age to giggle, laugh, cheer, hiss, boo and be daft. It’s a dazzling, high camp, colourful and gloriously ridiculous piece of escapism on a winter’s day, far removed from real world worries.
When something ain’t broke, the crowds are roaring with laughter and the tills are ringing (many provincial theatres are utterly dependent on panto income) it’s easy to understand why producers and theatre managers didn’t meddle with the stories, routines and jokes that have been peddled for decades.
However, over the past five years pantomime seems to have gone through a revolution. ‘Black Lives Matter,’ ‘Me Too’ and big conversations on social media, press and via the UK Pantomime Association have questioned a few of the traditions, calling out cultural appropriation, lack of diversity and other offensive stereotypes and humour.
Pantomime continues with box office receipts rising every year and new stars being born all over the UK delighting family audiences in theatres and, thanks to the ongoing commitment from CBeebies, on television.
