Arts
I’m a great believer in the power of Panto
Having directed various School Drama productions during my teaching career, I somewhat tentatively suggested producing a parish pantomime during a Landulph Festival committee meeting in 2015. With the enthusiastic support of the committee, I then began researching how this idea might work out in practice. Being a rural parish, I thought Jack & The Beanstalk might be a good choice of production with a wide-ranging cast of characters.
I placed a notice in the parish newsletter inviting anyone interested in being part of an exciting parish panto adventure to come to a meeting at the Hall. I remember arriving at the Hall with my husband, Martin and waiting to see who would turn up. No-one!
We were about to give up and go home when…….at the very last moment, the doors opened and a whole group of parishioners of all ages arrived, excited and chattering. I outlined my ideas and inclusive philosophy, whereby anyone who wished to be involved and would commit to the project, would be welcome to contribute either onstage or behind the scenes. We then all did some warm up Drama games and fun activities together….and so….. Jack & the Beanstalk grew!
For me, the special bond that evolves in creating a pantomime is indescribable. Each week through the dreary winter months the cast turns up and we all enjoy the process of discovering hidden talents, learning new skills and working together to explore a whole new world of acting, comedy, music and even dance! As the production gains momentum, other volunteers join in to build scenery, produce imaginative props, prompt, design costume and make-up.
All these elements have culminated in the successful sellout performances of Jack & The Beanstalk 2016, Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs 2018 and Peter Pan in 2025 which have all been much enjoyed by everyone involved. Landulph families and friends are always incredibly supportive and provide great audiences by participating with gusto in the interactive traditions of pantomime, especially enjoying local jokes and references and the cheeky innuendo and slapstick antics of those on stage.
Have we reached the end of the Landulph Pantomime journey?
Oh yes, we have!
Oh no, we haven’t!
Who knows???
© Sally Worth, February 2026, All rights reserved
Photographs by Debbie Geraghty
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