Shoreham’s Ropetackle promises panto alternative

Shoreham’s Ropetackle has confirmed it will still be able to offer panto this Christmas.
RopetackleRopetackle
Ropetackle

Spokeswoman Nicky Thornton said: “Sadly, our planned annual pantomime production Aladdin has now been postponed until 2021. However, at Ropetackle Arts Centre we believe that although Aladdin can’t fly his magic carpet this year, the show must go on!

“We have therefore designed an alternative Christmas season that will be safer for audiences and more viable for LP Creatives to produce with the current social distancing measures in place.

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“The new show, specially written for these extraordinary times, is called Oh Yes It Is! – A Family Christmas Adventure. It stars seasoned panto pros Joe Meloy and Oliver Byng and is from the same team that has made the magic happen at Ropetackle for the last eight years.”

Tom Beard, the panto’s producer, director and writer, said: “The decision to postpone this year’s production and deliver an alternative is one that has been difficult for all involved.

“We have to make the right decision based on the safety of our audiences, financial viability and long-term sustainability of Shoreham’s wonderful Ropetackle venue.

“To put on our planned productions would not be viable with social distancing measures in place, but providing this alternative is a viable, safe and sensible option.

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“Capacity to our alternative programme will be limited, and I strongly encourage customers wishing to book to do so early as tickets are already selling fast.

“This show promises to be a fun and unique experience. It is very important for children to come to the theatre. To see something spectacular in real life during the festive season makes everything seem so much bigger and better!

“This is why it is so important for us to produce high quality family shows. Oh Yes It Is! will be a chance for all generations to spend time together at the theatre this Christmas.

“Not only does this time help strengthen the family bond, it helps to nurture a love of live theatre in the youngest of audience members.”

In the piece, Widow Twanky and Wishy Washy are in a spin.

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“They hear rumour of a cancelled pantomime in Old Peking. Not on your Nurse Nelly we say! Join our intrepid cast as they get in a Muddles and showcase a whirlwind tour of panto-land with plenty of fun, laughter and all-round pantomime madness!”

Running time approx 90 mins, including interval.

The show will be presented from December 11-31, with tickets priced at £15 adults, £13 children available on 01273 464440 or www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk.

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