Theatre Style: Pantomime

Pantomime is an essential part of the Scottish Christmas theatre season.  It is a very British institution.  The tradition has retained a particular vitality in Scotland. 

What is pantomime?

Pantomimes are performed in diverse venues around Scotland, from established theatres to village halls.  Whether professional or amateur; lavish or understated, pantomimes are a theatrical mainstay. 

Panto is fairy tale, comedy and at times slick modern showbiz. It combines songs, jokes, comedy sketches, and dance numbers; and keeps alive many favourite catch phrases. It uses a limited number of well-known fairy tales, such as Cinderella, Mother Goose and Jack and the Beanstalk.  The comedy is largely slapstick, and the endings happy-ever-after.  However, panto is not necessarily formulaic - it weaves references to local personalities, international news, local gossip, and ad lib comments into each show.

The main concern is fun rather than plot, and everyone, including the audience, has a traditional role to play in this form of theatre.  A unique aspect of panto is its form of audience participation. Audience members are encouraged to boo-and-hiss "baddies," warn the "goodies" of impending danger ("It's behind you!") and talk back to the actors. 

History of pantomime

It is generally acknowledged that British pantomime is modelled on the early masques of the Elizabethan and Stuart times.  In the 14th century the early masques were musical, mime or spoken dramas, usually performed in grand houses although by the 17th century they were really no more than an excuse for a theme party.

Did you know? Pantomime literally means ‘all kinds’ of ‘mime’

While some have negative perceptions of panto – some say it is homogeneous and thrown together to make a ‘quick buck’ - panto can be unique, well produced and well considered.  Pantos are not only tremendous entertainment, but are also a way to introduce children to the joys of live theatre.

The future for pantomime is bright in Scotland.  A new generation of panto writers and performers are bringing new life to the tradition.

See this month’s featured theatre for details of the Tron Theatre Company's pantomime offerings.  This months' featured playwright is Forbes Masson, who will have his third panto for the Tron staged this Christmas.