Current and former BBC staff from across Hull and East Yorkshire take to the stage as Not the BBC Panto returns to Hull City Hall on Saturday 24th January with a new production of the classic pantomime, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood.
The group first staged a charity pantomime back in December 2000 and the gang have reunited to revive the local tradition with the goal to raise money for charity through the joy of live theatre. This year’s chosen beneficiaries are BBC Children in Need and WISHH Charity, which supports NHS patients, families and staff at Hull Royal Infirmary and Castle Hill Hospital.
The dazzling show features well-known faces and voices from BBC Radio Humberside and BBC Look North, who have swapped studios and offices for tights, frocks and feathered caps to bring festive fun to audiences across East Yorkshire.
Writer and Producer Jonathan Parker who takes on the role of Dame Dolly, said “We can’t wait to bring this classic story alive on stage this January. We’re also proud to be able to keep ticket prices to below £10 for all seats, to make it affordable for all.”
Packed with comedy, colourful characters, music, audience participation and plenty of traditional pantomime mischief, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood promises fun for all ages — whether you love a good groan at a bad joke, cheering our hero, Robin Hood, or booing the evil Sheriff of Nottingham.
Former BBC presenter Carl Wheatley who plays Simple Simon in the show, said “We love chasing away the January blues with our annual panto – and this year is our best yet.”
Those taking part include familiar faces and voices from the local BBC: Andy Comfort, Carl Wheatley, Caroline Bilton, Clare Crooks, Jonathan Parker, Judi Murden, Mike White, Philip Norton and Sally Fairfax.
All profits from ticket sales will be donated directly to BBC Children in Need and WISHH Charity and this production has been made possibly due to generous sponsorship from Hull Trains, Roche Civil Engineering and PBS.
Tickets are on sale now. Book at the Hull City Hall Box Office, call 01482 300 306 or visit www.hulltheatres.co.uk.