Whistle-stop pantomime pops up at Mareel to fill gap left by cancelled production
A POP-UP pantomime is set to take to the stage for the first time later this month.
The performances from the Islesburgh Drama Group – which will be held at Mareel – come after last month’s disappointment that the annual pantomime had been cancelled.
This was because of the ongoing extensive refurbishments at the Garrison Theatre, and the associated costs with hosting the full pantomime elsewhere.
However, the group have now promised a 45-minute long “whistle-stop tour of every panto you can think of”, starting at the end of November.
The pop-up pantomime will be directed by Jennie Atkinson, with four performances starting from Saturday 29 November at 2pm.
There will then be three performances on Sunday 30 November, at 1pm, 3.30pm and 6pm.
Islesburgh Drama Group said it would be “the perfect opportunity for children (and adults) to immerse themselves in the fun and traditions of every stereotypical pantomime.”
They encouraged folk to come along prepared to “sing, clap, hiss and boo”.
And the group said there would be an opportunity for attendees to meet and greet with all of their favourite characters after the curtain drops.
Islesburgh Drama Group president Cheryl Cluness said last month that they were “exploring alternative performances” after the cancellation of The Wizard of Oz.
She said she hoped the pop-up panto would help bring festive joy to the whole community.
“We recognise the importance of creating fun and memories for children and the community and we truly hope those who join us will feel the magic of stepping briefly into the world of pantomime,” Cluness added.
Tickets will be on sale from Shetland Arts from 10am on Friday 7 November, priced at £8 for adults and £5 for bairns aged 11 and under.
Islesburgh Drama Group said they were grateful to Shetland Charitable Trust for their support in lifting this production to the stage.
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