On the 7th, 8th and 9th of December 2012, at the Colegio Cardenal Spínola in Madrid, one of the most entertaining Christmas play for both children and parents is going to be performed: a pantomime version of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.
But what is Pantomime?
During the19th century in England children used to go to theatre especially during the Christmas and New Year's season to watch these entertaining shows that included music, magic, humour, flying and fantastic elements. This kind of show, which has children's stories as its main references, is called a pantomime, and has become a popular form of theatre.
It usually follows several performance conventions that will assure a hilarious effect.
The principal boy, for example, is always a girl wearing tight-fitting male garments that make her female nature evident.
The origin of this habit is in the 19th century because it seems that little girls could easily memorize the lines of the play.
The pantomime dame is, on the other hand, usually played by a man in drag.
Audience participation is another funny aspect of this type of play. If you go, you'll be call into the play to cheer for the victims and booh the villain.
The music is also entertaining, it combines well-known tunes with re-written lyrics. Of course the audience will participate in it! Last year we all stood up and sang along with the actors!!! It was absolutely embarrassing!!!
There is always an animal hanging around and a good Fairy that enters from stage right (Heaven, according to Medieval symbols) while the villain enters from the stage left (Hell).
And finally there's always a chorus appearing here and there during the performance to delight us with a variety of songs and dances.
The contrast between the familiarity of a famous children's story and the re-written plot gives birth to an amazing comic and satirical effect.
I went last year and I'm really looking forward to seeing this new 'panto'. I'm sure it's going to be super captivating and lively!
As you have already read in the title it's based on Charles Dickens' book 'A Christmas Carol' and it is being performed for five shows only!
WHEN?
Friday 7th December, 19.30
Saturday 8th december, 16.00 and 19.30
Sunday 9th december, 12.00 and 16.00
WHERE?
Colegio Cardenal Spínola (C/ Cardenal Marcelo Spínola, 34)
Metro Duque de Pastrana- Bus 16, 29, 70, 107, 150
HOW?
Information: christmascarolmp@gmail.com
Tickets on sale at:
Hastings School
Runnymede College
J&J Books and Coffee
Sabores del mundo
