New era at festive pantomime
HALIFAX’S TRADITIONAL end of year panto marks a new beginning for theatre go-ers after bosses decided to stop selling and allowing plastic toys into performances.
Chiefs at the Victoria Theatre say they have made the move due to both environmental concerns over single-use plastics and complaints that flashing toys can distract performers while they are on stage.
The toys can also spoil some of the stage special effects.
Plastic toys will no longer be on sale inside the venue during panto season and customers cannot bring their own into the theatre.
The venue’s manager Tim Fagan said: “Plastic pollution is a global issue and whilst this is a small step, we hope that this is just one step closer to encouraging our organisation and guests to think more about the use of single use plastic.
“We are also looking at other environmental initiatives and are trialling recycling solutions in the venue in the coming months.”
Instead the Victoria Theatre announced that they will be selling a new range of higher quality toys at this year’s pantomime.
It is hoped that these new toys will encourage pantomime visitors and their children to make and share stories inspired by their pantomime experience and that the toys will be used for years to come.
The new range includes a selection of hand puppets, finger puppets and pencils with playful toppers with more choice of souvenirs that will make excellent Christmas gifts.
The Grade-I listed theatre dates back to 1901 and has been owned by Calderdale Council since the 1960s.
Beauty and the Beast runs at the Victoria Theatre until Sunday January 5. Tickets start from £16 and they can be bought online at www.victoriatheatre.co.uk, or by calling the Box Office on 01422 351158.
Plastic pollution is a global issue and we hope people will think about the use of single use plastic.
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