Regional theatres will go bust without Christmas pantos, industry warns

For regional theatres it is Widow Twankey and not Lady Macbeth that fills the coffers, and experts warn pantomime cancellations will threaten the financial lifeblood of local playhouses which could “close for good”.

The panto season provides millions of pounds from reliable sales to keep businesses going in areas lacking the West End’s lucrative musicals and vast tourist ticket sales.

Covid-19 restrictions which have stifled the industry since March could bring down the curtain on a British Christmas tradition by cancelling annual performances, and force cherished theatres across the country close permanently.

These “depend on their pantomimes”, according to industry experts, and losing out on hundreds of thousands of tickets sales would be “devastating” and could see some regions without access to venues often bolstered by Buttons drawing the crowds.

The Birmingham Hippodrome sold 115,000 tickets during its last season, centred on Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and is one of the many theatres which are facing dire financial consequences if they cannot put the crisis threatening panto behind them.

Chief executive Fiona Allan is hoping for clear plans to be issued by Government for reopening and safe operation to ensure the vital panto season goes ahead, but fears that impractical social distancing guidelines will mean revenues run dry.

Theatres across the UK have been closed since March and many have suffered almost total loss of income, with insiders warning that more than 1,000 theatres around the country could become insolvent by the end of the year.

The Hippodrome will remain shut until autumn, but any extended closure in the lucrative Christmas period will threaten the future of the venue, with the same predicament facing others across the UK.

“I have no doubt at all, that should the Christmas season not be possible, we will see many more theatres close for good,” said the Hippodrome’s chief executive Ms Allan.

“Theatres around the country depend on their pantomimes to bring in substantial income and for many it is the most profitable season of the year.

“The large scale pantomimes can take several million pounds in ticket revenues, often helping sustain theatre businesses through the rest of the year.

“Last season we sold nearly 115,000 tickets, welcoming audiences from across the midlands and further afield , and we know that for many audience members it is a much anticipated regular Christmas treat.”

As with other auditoriums including the Royal Albert Hall, socially distanced performances with dramatically reduced capacities would not be financially viable for regional venues, and the loss of the panto season would  have a “devastating effect for theatres around the country”.

Famed venues including the Old Vic and Royal Albert Hall, have already called for a clear timetable from Government for reopening and clear instruction on guidelines which will shape the future capacities and profitability of venues.

Ms Allan has asked that regional theatres which keep audiences entertained far beyond the M25 should also be given clarity on their future.   She said:  “All theatres await the issue of a clear roadmap.”