Theatre News

First NW Panto Ready to Roll at Coliseum

We may have only just finished celebrating fireworks night but the pantomimes in the Northwest are already jostling for your attention.

One of the first in terms of opening dates is Oldham Coliseum’s Dick Whittington which stars regular audience favourite Fine Time Fontyane (pictured, here). 

Dick and his trusty cat are off to London to seek their fame and fortune.
But can Dick defeat the evil King Rat? Will he marry his love Alice?
Will he become the mayor of London? And – most importantly – what will
the Dame wear?

The show is also written by Fine Time Fontayne – the
Coliseum’s regular dame – who will also be donning an apron as Sarah the
Cook. Joining him is the star of Hollyoaks and recently Coronation StreetAndonis Anthony as King Rat.

It
may lack massive celebrity names like Pamela Anderson and Henry Winkler
but the essential elements for a great panto are there – time honoured
traditions like the slosh scene; the transformation and the inevitable
wedding and walk-down – plus all the favourite characters: Principal
Boy; evil villain and, of course, the Dame. Add a collection of songs
both current and classic and you know you’re in for a fantastic evening
of pure entertainment.

If you have kids and they love getting
involved, children in the audience also get chance to take to the stage
by taking part in the traditional song sheet.

The show is
directed by Kevin Shaw, with set design by Celia Perkins and the
cast also includes Justine Elizabeth Bailey (Dick Whittington) and
Liz Carney (Fairy Bowbells).

Dick Whittington runs at the Oldham Coliseum from 26 November, 2011 – 14 January, 2012.