Actors from previous editions of the Kennett Amateur Theatrical Society annual Pantomime show. The 11th annual show will take place Jan. 13 & 14.
KENNETT SQUARE — The Kennett Amateur Theatrical Society proudly presents the eleventh of its annual pantomimes in the British style. The show takes place at the Kennett High School Auditorium, Jan. 13th, at 7.30pm and 14th January, at 2 pm & 7.30pm. Tickets for the evening performances are $8.00 & $4.00, with matinee $tickets priced at 6.00 & $3.00.
British pantomimes?
There is no mime in British pantomimes. Never. Imagine instead American musical theater with huge chunks of vaudeville action – silly jokes, wonderful songs, in fact an entertainment that will appeal to all the family. These are not shows only intended for children. Adults will find plenty to enjoy (and laugh at – you can explain it the children later). Think “Shrek”, but live.
In 2010, KATS accepted a British pantomime script outline from three old English friends who happened to be writers and musicians (William and Judi Merrick, and Hugh Sandison). The pantomime in question was “Cinderella and the Charming Frog Prince”, a reworking of the traditional story in which things don’t work out quite as you expect. Very much in the tradition of KATS pantomimes, there is a male hero (played by a girl), a mature female protagonist (played by a man), a pantomime animal (Buttercup, the cow), a whole coterie of evil villains, a fairy Godmother, and Greek Chorus. Well, alright, the Greek Chorus isn’t traditional – but it works for us.
The cast of fifty is directed by Gary Smith and Chris Ramsey. Musical arrangements are by Phil and Marilee Calabrese.
