What’s thought to be the Island’s only socially distanced pantomime is set to take to the stage at Shanklin Theatre this December.
Professional company Spotlight Isle of Wight - which has been putting on family pantos on the Island for more than ten years - plans to put on the classic fairy tale of Rapunzel this year.
The actors say they are “itching to get back on stage” after their last appearance in December 2019.
Cast members will abide by social distancing and Government guidelines surrounding coronavirus - so the show can go on for families on the Isle of Wight.
Because of regulations, the theatre can only take 27% of its usual audience capacity, so Islanders are being asked to book in advance.
Company Director for Spotlight Isle of Wight, Jayne Derbyshire told Isle of Wight Radio:
“We are going to try and make it more fun, friendly, safe and enjoyable than it ever has been before...We are doing Rapunzel - so the classic fairy tale - with a dashing prince and Rapunzel trapped in a tower from birth. Her evil Mother won’t let her out and then her real biological Mother goes on the search to find her with the help of some detectives… hopefully, it will end very well and happy."
Rehearsals start on December 6 which is later than usual so the actors can be as compliant as possible and form a working bubble.
Jayne added:
“Behind the scenes, it’s going really well, it’s lots of fun...and the COVID compliance stuff is now just legality we have to follow and hopefully our audience won’t notice too much of a change.”
The opening night will be 19 December and will finish on 3 Janurary.
Tickets go on sale from November 6.
You can book your tickets by calling the box office 01983 868000
Find out more about the show via Shanklin Theatre’s website here.
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