What is a pantomime in England?
A pantomime, or panto, is a type of musical comedy staged in England around Christmas and New Year. Based on fairy tales such as Cinderella and Aladdin, it features slapstick, songs, cross-dressing and audience participation.
Pantomime developed from Italian commedia dell'arte and English theater traditions of the 1700s and 1800s. It became a family Christmas tradition in Victorian times.
Popular stories include Cinderella, Aladdin, Jack and the Beanstalk, Dick Whittington and Snow White.
Panto traditions
The pantomime dame, a comic female character played by a man in exaggerated costume, is a central figure. The principal boy, the young male hero, is often played by a young woman.
Audiences are expected to join in by shouting phrases such as he's behind you and oh no it isn't, with the reply oh yes it is. They also boo the villain and cheer the hero.
Pantomimes are performed in theaters across England, from the West End to small community halls. They often include jokes about current events and local celebrities. Many people's first experience of theater is a pantomime.