SOLIHULL’S popular pantomime season at the Core Theatre has been cancelled – but its bosses have promised the show will go on next year.
The borough’s production of Cinderella is the latest theatreland victim of the restrictions brought on by coronavirus.
Councillor Joe Tildesley, cabinet member for leisure, pulled the plug on the panto after discussions with producers Little Wolf Entertainment.
He said there are a number of reasons for his decision, including the practicalities of trying to host and deliver a large scale, high quality pantomime within the confines of the current Covid-19 restrictions.
The Core Theatre and Little Wolf Entertainment will now look to reschedule the Cinderella Pantomime for December 2021.
Customers who have bought tickets for this year’s show will be offered the opportunity to transfer their ticket or to have a refund. Tickets will then be put on sale to the wider general public for the 2021 performance.
Coun Tildesley, said: “This is obviously hugely disappointing news, but given the current situation in the borough it is best to postpone this production until such a time when we can comfortably and confidently deliver the best performance possible, in the safest way.
“In the meantime, we will look at other possible options to use our council theatre over the winter season.”
Morgan Brind and Alan Bowles, directors of Little Wolf Entertainment, said: “We hope our wonderful audiences will understand why we are taking the difficult decision to postpone Cinderella’s trip to the ball. We’re passionate about delivering unforgettable family panto and it has become increasingly clear that we wouldn’t be able to safely present a show of our usual size and spectacle this season.
“But don’t rip up your royal invitation yet as we’re working with the fantastic Box Office team to ensure no one misses out and we hope audiences will choose to support the re-opening of live theatre by transferring existing bookings to our new dates next Christmas at the same price and the same seats.
“We’d also like to say a huge thank you to The Core Theatre and Solihull Council, who have been hugely supportive producing partners throughout this difficult time. “We can’t wait to welcome you back with an even bigger and better show than before.”
