Why Pantomime is an Important Cultural Tradition
Right now, there is a lot of talk about what it means to be British/English. And whilst we're not about to wade into any sort of political debate, we believe that we've got a serious contender for one of the top national traditions.
That's right - Pantomime.
Pantomime : A Very British Pastime
Even if we forget the fact that pantomime has been bringing families together for laughter in the festive season for centuries, pantomime goes far beyond that. It’s a tradition that weaves together theatre, community, education, and good old-fashioned silliness.
Here’s why it matters:
1. Community spirit
Panto is one of the rare moments where grandparents, parents, and children sit side by side in the theatre and all find something to laugh at. From slapstick to sly political jokes, everyone gets their share. It’s not just entertainment - it’s togetherness.
2. Audience participation
Where else do you go to the theatre and end up shouting at the stage? “He’s behind you!” is more than a catchphrase - it’s a way of giving children their first taste of live storytelling. Panto turns the audience into a character in the play.
3. Cultural heritage
Pantomime is part of a long tradition stretching back to Italian commedia dell’arte, through music hall and Victorian theatre, and right into the present day. It’s living history: colourful, chaotic, and evolving, but still recognisably “ours.”
4. Learning in disguise
Teachers know this instinctively: children learn best when they’re engaged. Panto sneaks in literacy, moral lessons, and even history (with a few turnips thrown in) without ever feeling like a lesson. It’s education in sequins.
More Than A Show
What makes pantomime uniquely British is that it refuses to be pompous. It’s theatre that says: “Come in, have a laugh, join in the fun.” It’s a mirror of Britishness itself - witty, occasionally nonsensical, full of traditions, but always welcoming.
So yes, Britain gave the world many interesting things, but most importantly, we also gave it pantomime. And it's the only thing to come with custard pies, a man dressed head to toe in sequins, and a crowd of children shouting themselves hoarse. Unless you have a seriously interesting fish and chip shop on your local parade. In which case, we need to know about it pronto.