But the pantomime, although seen as a very
English tradition, like Punch and Judy, originates from Italian
comic dramas of the 16th and 17th centuries. Based on the
harlequin spectacle of the 18th century and the burlesque
of the 19th, pantomime has retained the characteristic anomalies
of the principal boy being played by a female, while a man
plays the dame.
Mostly, the plots are based on folk tales such as Puss In
Boots, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and Red Riding Hood. The
role of the harlequin gradually diminished as pantomime evolved,
and new elements were added to the mix of slapstick and double
entendre. Popular songs, topical humour and satire found their
way into the script, along with guest appearances by popular
entertainers of the day.
And, of course, the audience chants of where "Look
behind you" and "Oh no, he didn't" have become
the eagerly anticipated banter between actors and the crowd.
Nowadays, people will try to tell you that pantomime is for
children, but it it’s more for the family. In the end,
though, everyone lives happily ever after. It's great!
Why not check out the local theatre, to see what pantomine
is on offer this year, Oh yes it is great!. If you would like
to know more click
here..
Check out the Pantomine at The Wyvern Theatre Swindon more details click here Oh Yes it Is! |
