Now, traditionally we should follow that title with a rousing shout of ‘oh no it isn’t’, but of course we are better than that…’oh no we’re not!’
Of course tradition plays a huge part in any pantomime, there’s the set routines, the clever word play, audience participation, old jokes and bang up to date cultural references, principle boys and over the top baddies, as well as everyone’s favourite part, the sing-a-longs.
Here in Guildford we have two very different pantomimes this year, and it just so happens that both of them are being staged by great friends of the hotel.
We will begin with Robin Hood, at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre which opens on November 30th and runs until January 5th.
Starring EastEnders and Detectorists favourite Lucy Benjamin as the wicked Sheriff of Nottingham, this is a fabulous family show that’s full of merriment and merry men, led by the dashing Robin himself alongside his loyal band of heroes and a rather feisty heroine.
And on the subject of heroes, we have two genuine local legends ripping up the scenery and stealing every scene. BBC broadcasting stalwart Peter ‘PG’ Gordon is appearing in his 19th season with the Guildford Panto, this time as Nanny Fanny Annie, with none other than ‘acting royalty’, Matt Pinches of Guildford Shakespeare Company…a real clash of cultures right there!
This really is a very funny show for the whole family to enjoy, and as with every year it will sell out, so please get your tickets while you can.
You can get more details and book tickets here
And now for something at the other end of the entertainment spectrum.
Peter Pan and the Lusty Boys is an adult panto, brought to life by Nick and Charlotte Wyschna, the clever clogs double act behind Guildford Fringe Theatre Company, the Fallen Angel Cabaret Bar, and blockbuster events far too numerous to mention.
This brilliant piece of theatre leans heavily on the bawdy side of pantomime tradition, with jokes and songs as risqué as many of the costumes. Expect double entendres, single entendres, plenty of good old-fashioned rudeness, and not so subtle innuendo as the hugely talented cast breathes new life into an old story.
This is the 12th consecutive year of the Adult Pantomime, and there is a simple reason for its longevity, it is always really, really funny.
The Back Room of The Star Inn is home to this riotous production running until January 11th, tickets can be booked here