For thousands of people all over the world, our humble York Theatre Royal pantomime, famously led by legendary dame Berwick Kaler, has been the highlight of the festive season.
However, it came to light last night (10th January) that this year may be the company’s final farewell.
Disputes over the amount of money spent on the ‘cheap’ sets and costumes, as well as ‘expensive’ tickets, have caused cast members to worry over the security of the show. Long-standing actress Suzy Cooper, who has played in nearly 30 of Berwick’s pantos, said to The Press: “We don’t know if we are coming back. Our fear is that this is our last year.”
And it seems that cast members were told last night that the family-favourite is, in fact, ending.
Posted on a fan’s review in a Facebook group titled ‘The York Pantomime (Berwick Kaler) Appreciation Society’, AJ Powell, who also stars in the panto, said: “Deeply saddened that it has come to an end like this. It’s a shame that the theatre royal management don’t have faith in us or the public to continue with tradition here at York theatre royal. I’m just very thankful for all the years I’ve had. Thank you for your loyal support.”
As this, understandably, got members of the group worrying, he later confirmed the rumours on another post, saying: “Sadly it is confirmed! We have been told today they are going in a new direction and want to find a new audience”.
Were you at the theatre last night? Are you a regular of the Theatre Royal pantomime? What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments!
Linda
11 Jan 2020 at 16:12We attended the panto yesterday afternoon as part of our long standing tradition. We used to take our children and now take our grandchildren. For the three year old it was her first panto,she sat enthralled throughout. The show was full of fun as always and seeing familiar cast and musicians is like meeting up with extended family. At the end Martin made an emotional statement saying York Theatre no longer wanted them or the panto. The last song followed in which Martin,AJ,Suzy and David were teary eyed,so much so there were points where Suzy stopped singing. It was hard to witness these lovely people ,who bring so much pleasure to so many people , being so upset. If they could find a new venue I do not think we would be alone in following them and continuing to foster the same loyalty which they have always shown to their devoted audience.
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