Guide for how to behave or what to expect at a Panto in England?

Guide for how to behave or what to expect at a Panto in England? - Pink and White I M a Little Print Textile

I have been invited to a Panto in England.

Now have I been told quite a bit about it, but I think it is going to be quite a shock for people who have never been to such a theater performance.

Is there a guide for people who want to go and join in with the public at Panto's?

I have seen descriptions in books, like Mercedes Lackey's A Scandal in Battersea, but it is easier when the guide is 'free standing' and not part of a book.



Best Answer

It's not that hard.

The audience at pantomimes is mostly children (and their grandparents) many of whom will be going to the theatre for the first time, so the performers keep it simple. The heroes are good and the baddies are obviously bad. The "fourth wall" is not just broken, but largely ignored, and the performers address the audience directly to tell them when to boo and when to cheer, and when to shout "He's behind you!" or "Oh no he isn't".

It is really pretty obvious, as it has to be to cater for the young and inexperienced audience. Just go with the flow!




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What are the 5 rules of pantomime?

Terms in this set (5)
  • Make the scene clear. Rule 1.
  • Exaggerate facial expressions. Rule 2.
  • Keep each motion precise. Rule 3.
  • Keep scenes entertaining. Rule 4.
  • Don't Talk!!!! Rule 5.


How do you act in a pantomime?

Performances can feature everything from musical numbers to stand-up comedy routines, magic tricks to social satire, spectacular set pieces to crazy costume changes \u2013 and more. Many pantomimes include all of the above, so one thing's for sure: they're never boring!

What can I expect from a pantomime?

While productions may be different each year, there are a few phrases said that have now stuck as pantomime traditions. \u201cHe's behind you!\u201d Normally said when a baddie is sneaking onto the stage, the audience shouts \u201cHe's behind you!\u201d to warn the hero that the villain is close to them.



'A Panto Carol' Accessibility Guidelines- the Winston Theatre




Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Images: Ann H, Alex Green, Andrea Piacquadio, Andrew Neel