Panto Magic Unleashed: How Christmas Tradition Thrives into January!

As we leave the holiday season behind, with decorations stored away and schools back in session, the spirit of pantomime continues to enchant audiences. In Liverpool, performances still light up the stages of the Royal Court and Everyman theatres, and also at Theatr Clwyd in Mold. But one might wonder, does the magic of pantomime feel the same after the festive season, or perhaps, does it serve an even greater purpose during the dreary mid-January blues?

At Nottingham Playhouse, the pantomime “Sleeping Beauty” will conclude this weekend, right before the infamous Blue Monday, often cited as the most dismal day of the year. John Elkington, starring as Nelly the Nanny, has been a fixture in Nottingham’s pantomime scene for nearly three decades. He remarks that January shows provide a much-needed lift for those feeling the post-holiday slump, offering a final festive flourish. “It feels like an extension for the children, maintaining the excitement with the pantomime still to come!” Despite a reduced schedule post-New Year, Elkington emphasizes the importance of sustaining high energy in every performance. For him, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day are his only chances to relax.

Annually, about 40,000 people attend the Nottingham Playhouse pantomime. Elkington notes that while audience sizes are more robust before Christmas, the enthusiasm doesn’t wane, with January bringing more intimate and accessible performances. He approaches each show with as much gusto as if his own family were in the front row, ensuring every performance is special.

The final performance night at Nottingham, known for its playful pranks on the cast by the crew, has become a legendary event that draws audiences back for a second viewing. “Anything can happen,” Elkington recalls, smiling at memories of spontaneous pillow fights among the cast and crew. Nottingham Playhouse also offers “Sleeping Beauty” online, directed by Adam Penford, available for streaming until the curtain falls on the final live performance.

The Prolonged Charm of Liverpool’s Pantomimes

In Liverpool, “The Scouse Christmas Carol” at the Royal Court was originally scheduled to close this weekend but has been extended until January 24 due to its popularity. Not only is it one of the last Christmas pantomimes to conclude, but it was also among the first to open, starting its run on November 7.

“The panto is typically about building up to Christmas,” explains Kevin Fearon, executive producer and writer of the show. He notes that many January attendees are those who couldn’t get tickets for the December shows. The allure of dining during the performance at the stalls adds to its appeal, a feature that remains popular throughout the year at the Royal Court. “People enjoy coming out with their families for a meal and a show,” says Fearon. The panto represents the essence of the Royal Court: stellar entertainment and a vibrant atmosphere. Despite some patrons cutting back on visits due to economic strains, the panto continues to thrive, significantly boosting the theatre’s annual revenue, which helps fund other productions throughout the year.

While Christmas references are typically reduced or removed from January performances, “The Scouse Christmas Carol” retains its festive elements throughout the run, including the final song, a unique aspect for this production.

A Winter Pantomime for Adults

Meanwhile, in East London, the Brick Lane Music Hall opens its doors to “Jack and His Giant Stalk” from January 22 to March 7, offering a pantomime aimed at adults. According to Lucy Hayes, the writer and director, this production follows the success of their risqué adult pantomimes, including “Pinocchio and his Wooden Whopper.” The shift to staging the Christmas show earlier and extending the pantomime into the new year has proven successful, attracting audiences seeking light-hearted, festive entertainment even after the holidays.

Hayes describes the pantomime as “very fun, silly, and celebratory,” ideal for lifting spirits during the gloomy winter months. The venue, known for its pre-show dining options, continues to draw regular patrons who have made visiting the music hall a personal tradition.

Founded in 1992 by Hayes’ father, Vincent Hayes, Brick Lane Music Hall differentiates itself by scheduling its pantomime immediately after the typical season ends, thus finding its niche with less competition and creating its unique market, as Hayes proudly points out.

• “Sleeping Beauty” is showing at Nottingham Playhouse and online until January 17. “The Scouse Christmas Carol” is at the Royal Court, Liverpool, until January 24. “Jack and His Giant Stalk” is at Brick Lane Music Hall, London, from January 22 to March 7.