Despite another cancellation as a result of Covid, a Bridport theatrical group was determined that the show must go on as they put together a virtual pantomime week.
With the coronavirus pandemic leading to the cancellation of what would have been the group's 56th annual pantomime, the Bridport Pantomime Players decided to put on a virtual performance for their audience.
Marked by the group as 'panto week', the players entertained residents with a series of performances, both new and from the archives.
The group mixed throw back performances with some brand new videos recorded over Zoom, all available to view on the group's YouTube and Facebook pages.
The Zoom performances throughout the week included the players' traditional rendition of 'Goodbye Trouble' and finished with a performance of Elton John's 'I'm Still Standing'.
Amy Carlile, director of the Bridport Pantomime Players, said: "One of our members came up with the idea of doing these videos to keep up our morale of audience – but it quickly became clear that it is something we needed as well.
“We think of ourselves as a family, we have members of all ages and these videos have been instrumental in helping us stay connected.
“It’s our therapy to be honest – many of us have stressful jobs and doing these videos really has kept us going.
"The feedback has been so fantastic – I think we underestimated how important this was to people. Many of our members are living alone and it became something from them to look forward to."
The group are now looking forward to putting Covid 'behind them' and are planning to 'come back with a bang' for next year's pantomime.
The 2022 show will feature a performance of Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves.
Mrs Carlile added: "As soon as Saturday night ended, we had a virtual meet on Sunday and started to plan next year’s event. We have a year to prepare now and we are ready to come back with a real bang.
"We are already planning costumes and choreography and music is being discussed.
“In the meantime we’re going to be doing more video performances – the feedback has been really positive so we will definitely carry on.”
The group is looking for new members – on or off stage. If you are interested email johawker@johawker.plus.com
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