The show must go online! Teesside’s first Virtual College Pantomime to take place at Middlesbrough College

 COVID-19 has put a lot of the nation’s favourite festive activities on hold, but Middlesbrough College’s (@mbrocollege) Performing and Production Arts department have reimagined their legendary family pantomime to bring some virtual joy this season.

There will be heroes to cheer and villains to boo – all from the comfort of your own living room. A virtual pantomime spectacular is set to surprise and captivate pantomime fans of all ages with Middlesbrough College’s students performing not one, but four mini pantomimes. The show promises family friendly fun with a cast of loveable and love to hate characters, lots of laughs and sing-along songs.

This celebration of pantomime will be streamed to audiences on Thursday 17th December at 7:30pm. For just £5 per household, audiences can expect to enjoy performances from Cinderella, Aladdin, Robin Hood and Treasure Island.

As always, Middlesbrough College’s pantomime will include a dazzling set, designed and created by Simon Pell, and their Production Arts students will be technically supporting all performance aspects.

First year acting student Jack Singleton, who is performing the title role of Robin Hood, said:

“I’m over the moon that the pantomime is going ahead this year! Middlesbrough College is a great place to study and they have gone above and beyond by being the only College in the region who are hosting a virtual pantomime.

“Since studying at the College my confidence has increased and my skill-set has expanded. I’m hopeful of pursuing a career in acting or performing after I’ve completed my studies and I’m confident that Middlesbrough College is giving me the skills I need to make that dream a reality.”

Castmate Owen Beadle, who is playing the iconic role of Friar Tuck in Robin Hood, added:

“It’s brilliant that we are being given the opportunity to perform. It’s been a tough year, but the pantomime has brought so much joy to everyone involved. It’s definitely given us a boost and I’m sure it will boost audience’s spirits too!”

Nicola Scott-Hughes, the Co-ordinator for Performing & Production Arts said:

“We are delighted to offer audiences the opportunity to enjoy a pantomime this Christmas. Our students have worked incredibly hard and it’s fantastic they will have the opportunity to showcase their talents.

“It’s been a really difficult year for everyone, but our celebration of pantomime has kept the students spirits high and brought a lot of light and laughter to these dark and challenging times. I would encourage anyone to buy a ticket to enjoy some well-needed festive cheer!”

The Middlesbrough College celebration of pantomime will stream directly into homes for the perfect family Christmas night in.