Wilmslow Guild Players' much-loved Christmas pantomime returns this year, with an unusual twist on the classic panto theme.
The panto is called 'The Christmas Cavalier' and is set at the time of the English Civil War, when Cromwell tried to ban Christmas.
Director Lee Tipton said "It's still a totally traditional pantomime. All the usual characters are there, such as the dame, principal boy and girl, comedy duo and so on."
Lee added "Our pantos are something of a tradition at Wilmslow Guild. They are known for being family friendly, working very close to the audience with them around the stage on three sides. It is an unusual arrangement, but being so close allows the audience to be at the heart of the action.
"For some kids it's their first experience of real theatre and being produced like this makes it really exciting. We have a real family atmosphere to the whole production and the audience will appreciate this in the mix of songs, acting and music produced, some of it from a live band."
The panto sees some old hands return to the stage, such as Dave Basnett as Dame Dumplings and Grace Reed and Marion Dean as two of the witches. But there are also some new faces, such as Christine Unwin who will be playing the third witch.
The Players are also pleased to welcome many youngsters in the cast, from little ones in the chorus through to a number of teenagers playing lead roles such as Sophie Diss and Amy Carter as the principal boy and girl and Callum Tipton as the evil baddy Nicholas Grimnasty.
"My favourite character is the Bear, played by Matthew Cotton," said Lee. "He has a difficult role, playing the bear who never speaks. Matthew adds so much to the show with looks, glances and the occasional growl. I am convinced the children will fall in love with him."
The pantomime runs from 12th to 15th December at Wilmslow Guild, the adult education centre on Bourne Street. Performances start at 7.15pm. Tickets cost £7 for adults and £5 for children and can be booked by calling 01625 520126 or emailing [email protected].
