Panto fun with a twist of Deadly Nightshade

After the success of 2017’s live-action movie adaptation of Disney classic Beauty and the Beast, it was undoubtedly odds-on for a panto twist.

South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture teamed up with New College Lanarkshire to host a unique version of the timeless tale at Hamilton Town House for one week only in December. However, anyone expecting dancing clocks, teapots and candlesticks was surely surprised by the supporting characters treading the boards alongside favourites Belle and the Beast – in this case,

Panto

named Sebastian in a quirky nod to Scottish band Belle and Sebastian.

Audiences were introduced to the evil witch queen, Deadly Nightshade, whose advances were brushed off by the arrogant Prince Sebastian.

Not one to take rejection well, Deadly Nightshade cursed the prince to live as a hideous beast, unless he could find a maiden to fall in love with him.

Appearing frequently to a backdrop of Little Mix’s Power played by a live band, Deadly Nightshade had young audiences hissing and booing with glee throughout the show.

As if an evil witch scorned wasn’t dramatic enough, a tangled love story developed involving the Beast’s loyal servant, Old Agnes, who had the hots for panto dame and showstealer Betty Blumenthal.

Betty’s son, the hapless Boaby, had his eyes on Belle, but she was fair taken with the Beast.

Of course, no panto could be without its fair share of chart hits, and the cast belted out numbers from the likes of Ed Sheeran and Rita Ora with ease.

A rendition of P!nk’s What About Us was particularly impressive.

All in all, a fun show that kept the audience entertained throughout.

And if you’re still in the festive spirit, panto season is continuing at Motherwell Theatre – oh yes it is!

Comedy actor and Motherwell panto favourite Ian Sheepie Smith is leading the troops in Jack and the Beanstalk until Sunday, January 7.

Tickets are still available for afternoon slots at 2pm, and evening performances at 7pm, this Thursday to Saturday, January 4 to 6.

The final day on Sunday will see shows being performed at 2pm and 6pm.

For more information or to book tickets, visit go online to culturenl. co.uk/jack-and-the-beanstalk/ or you can also call the box office on

01698 403120.