Seven ways to say "He's behind you!" around Exeter
What would Christmas be without the prerequisite pantomime dames, fairytale princesses and cross-dressing performers cavorting around the city's theatres and village halls.
Here is The Exeter Daily's round-up of the best pantomimes in and around the city...
Ali Baba & the Forty Thieves
Until 16 December, Broadclyst Victory Hall
Join Broadclyst Theatre Group for some Arabian Nights as Ali Baba, his family, friends and foe conjure up the bustling streets of Baghdad at the Victory Hall this Christmas. This production promises to be colourful, musical, magical and very, very funny. A large cast waits in the wings to entertain you, with villains, heroes, comedians, puppets and Kamil – our very own pantomime Camel.
Tickets: £7, £5 conc/children under 14, on sale at Broadclyst Post Office.
Sleeping Beauty
21 December-5 January, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter
Once upon a time in a land far away, a beautiful princess was born. Cursed by the wicked fairy Carabosse, she was destined to spend her life as the Sleeping Beauty… until awakened by true love’s kiss.
Come and join Exeter Little Theatre Company in their 58th annual traditional pantomime where girls play boys in tights, men become brash women, good overcomes evil and where the audience can let their hair down and let themselves go. You can hiss and boo the baddies, cheer on the hero, and shout yourselves hoarse.
This show promises to be packed full of colour, fun and plenty of slapstick to brighten up those winter blues. There are plenty of great songs old and new and maybe a fire breathing dragon or two…
Tickets £12, £10.50 under 16s.
Box office: 01392 270891.
http://www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk/
Aladdin
15 December-6 January, Exeter Corn Exchange
Join a host of classic characters for songs, laughter and a perfect Christmas show.
The much-loved story tells of a simple lad who finds riches and adventure in far off Arabia. Along the way he must defeat the evil Abanazer and free the Genie of the lamp.
Aladdin is packed with a trio of stars of top West End shows including Daniel Page (Billy Elliot), Linda John-Pierre (Chicago) and Daniel Oliver (Beauty and the Beast). The panto essential, Widow Twankey, is played by Exeter’s favourite dame, the one and only Steve Bennett.
Tickets: £13-£19.50, £55 family ticket (2 adults and 2 children), £12.50 groups of 10 and more per person.
Box office: 01392 665938.
www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange
Aladdin
26-27 December, Exmouth Pavilion
Flying in on a magical carpet ride this spectacular show delivers all that is expected of a good pantomime but even more so because it's written by Scott Clarkson and produced by Fame Factory Spotlight you know you are guaranteed a great show. Clear, straightforward, and full of non-stop fun appealing to both boys and girls.
Tickets: £10, £8 under 16s, £30 family of four.
Box office: 01395 222477.
Beauty and the Beast: A Pantomime by Ron Hall
28 December-5 January, Manor Pavilion, Sidmouth
Sidmouth Amateur Dramatic Society present an enchanting story of Belle and the Beast, full of wonderful characters, amusing and visual gags, music, song and dance. Something for the whole family, young and old.
Tickets: £11/£5.50 under 16s.
Box Office: 01395 514413.
Treasure Island – The Panto
28 December-5 January, Carlton Theatre, Teignmouth
Teignmouth Players present Robert Louis Stevenson’s rollicking adventure yarn featuring Jim Hawkins, Long John Silver, Blind Pew, Ben Gunn et al, brought to vivid life by the team of Hales, Hogan & Wright.
Young Jim and his Mum Harriet find Captain Flint’s map and aided by Squire Trelawney and his daughter Polly set sail in Captain Smollett’s ship “The Golden Behind” to retrieve the treasure. But he is pursued by Flint’s vindictive spirit, and assorted cutthroats, including the infamous Long John Silver.
Tickets: £8/£6.
Box office: 01626 778991.
http://www.carltontheatre.com/
Snow White
9-12 January, America Hall, Pinhoe.
With everything you’d expect from a traditional pantomime, good overcoming evil and true love from the heart conquering all, Pinhoe Pantomime Society’s production of Snow White is a fun packed evening of entertainment for all ages. It’s a fantastic way to round off your Christmas and New Year – an absolute must, don’t miss out!
Tickets £5-£7.50.
Box office: 01392 469179 (Mon-Sat).
