New Wolsey removes price barrier with free panto tickets

The curtain has gone up on the New Wolsey Theatre’s ambitious ‘Pay it Forwards’ scheme ahead of this year’s pantomime.

The theatre in Civic Drive has become renowned for its Rock ‘n’ Roll pantos, which seamlessly blend comedy with show-stopping numbers, with the instruments played on stage by multi-talented performers.

The shows regularly receive five-star reviews and sell out every year and won best pantomime back in 2022. 

Steve Simmonds and his giant rat minions attracted a chorus of delighted boos and hisses whenever they appeared. Image: Mike Kwasniak (Image: Mike Kwasniak)Last year, Janna May made her debut in the role of the fairy. Image: Mike Kwasniak (Image: Mike Kwasniak)

The pirates came armed with water pistols in the 2023/24 run of Dick Whittington. Image: Mike Kwasniak (Image: Mike Kwasniak)

Now, the New Wolsey has come up with an ingenious scheme to ensure that the cost of tickets is no longer a barrier to families wanting to enjoy the show.

With public support, the theatre is aiming to give away 800 tickets to people who might otherwise not be able to experience the festive cheer.  

This is the equivalent of two full auditoriums at the Civic Drive theatre. 

Douglas Rintoul is the theatre’s chief executive and artistic director.

“We acknowledge that for some members of our community, the chance to enjoy live theatre remains financially out of reach,” he said.  

“In light of our challenging economic circumstances, we wanted to find a way to give the gift of pantomime to some of those people.

“We’d really appreciate your support.”

Audiences and supporters of the New Wolsey can get involved in the appeal by donating any amount they can space.

Donations can be made towards the end of March, when the title of this year’s Rock ‘n’ Roll panto is announced and tickets go on sale.

This can be done in-person at the theatre, over the phone, or through the New Wolsey’s website.