After an acclaimed opening, the director of Treasure Island at Greenwich Theatre, one of London’s leading Off-West End theatres, has suggested that the pandemic may lead to a whole new approach to theatre programming, including a rise in summer pantomimes.
“We have all come to associate the idea of pantomime with Christmas” said James Haddrell, director of the show and artistic director of the venue, “but actually, the magic of pantomime is the creation of a show that all ages can enjoy together, programmed at a time when the whole family are free to do something together.
“Historically we’ve all associated that with the festive season, but summer is no different. Children are off school, parents are used to taking time off for a family summer holiday, and the longer days and lighter evenings actually make it more appealing to many as a time for an evening of family entertainment.”
As a result, Treasure Island features many of the traditional elements of pantomime, and audiences and critics alike are loving it.
One audience member took to Twitter to comment: “Such a great show @GreenwichTheatr yesterday. I was in fits of laughter! Not just for kids… I’m 43, my cousin 27! Kids there were absolutely loving it, so it’s definitely a show for everyone! Age 1-100!”
Other reports have included “Saw the play with my 10 year old. Both of us absolutely loved it! It’s the first play that my son has enjoyed so much!” and “Really wonderful. My 5 year old loved it and spoke vividly about it all the way home.”
Sardines Magazine, the first to review the show, gave it a glowing 5 stars and said “fast moving – hilarious comedy routines – great songs – rollicking adventure. Who could ask more for a summer holiday treat?”
The theatre was prompted to stage the production following enormous losses during the pandemic.
James said: “Last Christmas alone, the cancellation of two weeks of the pantomime meant income losses of almost £250,000 – which is about a quarter of our whole year’s income. People wanted to see the show – the run was sold out – but the pandemic put a stop to it. So we thought, what better way to fight back than to channel that spirit of pantomime into the summer months.”
With the show due to finish on September 4 (though tickets are still available for this final week), pantomime lovers need not panic – the venue’s acclaimed annual Christmas show will also be back. This year the theatre heads to Sherwood Forest for a panto version of Robin Hood, written by and starring Anthony Spargo as the Sheriff of Nottingham.
Book tickets for Treasure Island and Robin Hood at www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk