Guildford Fringe to produce Surrey’s only two live pantomimes this Christmas

Photo credit: Matt Pereira

Guildford Fringe Theatre Company will produce Surrey’s only two live pantomimes this festive season.

Professional theatre producers, Nick Wyschna and Charlotte Bateup, will provide fun for the whole family with Beauty and the Beast, which will play at The Borough Hall in Goldalming from 12-26 December. Then D!CK The Adult Panto will play at The Back Room of The Star Inn in Guildford from 25 November – 9 January. This will be the ninth adult panto that Guildford Fringe has produced, following previous sell-out runs.

Actor Philip Day will return to play the Dame in the Godalming pantomime, having played Dame Trott in Jack and the Beanstalk last year.

He said:  “Last year was such fun and I can't wait to be working with the same production team - the best in the land! They ensure all the important ingredients are there - a hilarious, fast-paced script, energetic songs and dance routines, colourful costumes and scenery AND, this year, social distancing in the auditorium. So, rest assured Dads, I'm afraid I won't be able to come and sit on your laps or dash through the auditorium!

“We are all kids at heart and I think we all need a good laugh, especially during these uncertain times. I can't wait to get to grips with my Dame Dominique Derrière. She sounds like a bit of a diva but also a fun and friendly party girl who doesn't mind getting down and dirty with the household chores as she tends to her master's needs! To find her character, I think it's necessary to start with a good bra. Get that right and everything falls into place!  If last year's audiences are anything to go by, we'll have them rolling in the aisles again with hilarity, fun and enthusiasm.” 

Both venues will operate at 30% capacity to allow for social distancing, one-way systems will be in place, thorough cleaning regimes and face coverings will be mandatory throughout. Group bookings will also be limited to a maximum of six people.

Producer Nick Wyschna said: “What a year 2020 has been! It makes me even more excited to be bringing Surrey’s only two pantomimes to Godalming and Guildford this year. I am so looking forward to making people smile and laugh… we could certainly all do with that! 

“Beauty and the Beast is one of my favourite childhood stories, it is so magical and the setting is just perfect in the historic town of Godalming! D!CK was the second adult panto I produced back in 2014 and I am over the moon to bring this brand new script by James Chalmers to Guildford.”

To book for Beauty and the Beast, click here or to book for D!CK The Adult Panto, click here.