Knight to remember
Theatre stages adults-only panto for the first time
IF you love a good panto but don’t love screaming children, tickets are now on sale for Gloucestershire’s only pantomime performed with adults in mind.
The Roses Theatre is staging two adults-only performances of their new pantomime, King Arthur: The Panto! written by Bafta-winning scriptwriter, Maurice Gran.
This is the first year that the Tewkesbury theatre has offered a version of its panto just for grown-ups.
Head of marketing and programming Caroline Lawrence, said: “This is something we’ve wanted to try for a while.
“After postponing our panto last year because of Covid-19, it felt like the right time to try something new.
“We know there is an appetite for people to enjoy themselves and make the most of the festive season.
“The adult shows are exactly like our normal panto - but with less of a filter, and a little more naughtiness.
“By its very nature panto is risque with jokes that fly over children’s heads, so very little script adaptation is needed for the adult version.
“Our two lunchtime adult performances are on Wednesday and Thursday, December 9 - 10, and are geared towards office parties, groups of friends, or anyone who fancies a fun afternoon.”
To add to the party atmosphere, ticket packages including Prosecco, pizza and festive cocktails are also available.
Set in Medieval Tewkesbury, King Arthur tells the tale of a humble baker’s boy who is destined for greater things in life.
Naturally, the path to glory is never straightforward and before he can fulfil his destiny, the hero must overcome his nemesis, Morgana Le Fey, and a scary dragon.
Ben Eagle, who returns to The Roses as panto dame, Ma Baker, added: “It’s great fun. It’s an excuse for adults to leave the kids at home and have a drink and enjoy the panto without worrying about anything other than how loud you’re laughing.
“Traditionally panto is written with children in mind, but there is also an element which appeals to adults.
“That doesn’t mean it’s an adultthemed show, but rather that the audience will be entertained with that level of humour.
“The script won’t necessarily change, but I will certainly enjoy being a bit naughtier and playing with Ma Baker’s male victims more than I might in the usual show. I guarantee it will be a fun experience!”
Sponsored by Thomson & Bancks Solicitors, King Arthur is Maurice Gran’s first pantomime, co-written with actor, performer and playwright, Nick Wilkes.
Maurice has co-written some of the UK’S most-loved TV sitcoms including Birds of a Feather, Goodnight Sweetheart and The New Statesman.
Tickets are available on The Roses website at rosestheatre.org, or from the box office on 01684 295074.
By its very nature panto is risque with jokes that fly over children’s heads, so very little script adaptation is needed for the adult version.
Caroline Lawrence