Festive drive-in Gisburn Panto 'Aladdin' sets new standards (oh yes it does!)

A magical family panto is just what the children needed after a difficult past nine months - and the drive-in Aladdin pantomime at Gisburne Park Pop Up certainly did not disappoint.
By Faiza Afzaal
Published 23rd Dec 2020, 09:05 BST
Updated 23rd Dec 2020, 09:08 BST
Despite the cold and wet weather, the performance by all the cast members was outstandingDespite the cold and wet weather, the performance by all the cast members was outstanding
Despite the cold and wet weather, the performance by all the cast members was outstanding

Featuring all the traditional pantomime elements that families have come to know and love, but given a modern twist with current pop songs and humour for all generations, the production proved to be an all singing and dancing spectacle - thoroughly enjoyed by adults and children who had travelled from far and wide to watch the festive tradition.

The extravaganza was hosted in a Covid-19 safe way to keep Christmas magic in the air. On arrival at the Gisburn Auction Mart site, visitors had their tickets scanned through their car windows. Cars were then parked more than two metres apart. The show is watched from inside the vehicle, picking up sound from the performance via the radio.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Families were encouraged to participate in the onstage antics by honking their horns, flashing their lights and turning on their wipers as the actors took centre stage. Aladdin, Jasmine and the rest of the crowd-pleasing cast would often directly address the camera during the show, which is filmed live on stage and relayed on two huge screens.

Youngsters got into the swing of things dancing to catchy tunesYoungsters got into the swing of things dancing to catchy tunes
Youngsters got into the swing of things dancing to catchy tunes

Despite the wet and cold weather, children popped up out of sunroofs to show off their dance moves to catchy songs. The production had so much humour and fun - and it's all enjoyed from the comfort and warmth of your car. Definitely festive fun for the whole family.

Due to the success of the drive-in pantomime, it has been extended until today (Wednesday).

Robyn Isherwood, director of Gisburn Park Pop-up, said: "We’re overwhelmed with the support and feedback from the drive-in pantomime and delighted to be able to offer families in tier three something that is a long-standing Christmas tradition in these challenging times.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"Due to popular demand, and sell-out shows we’ve added extra panto dates and our first ever drive in carol concerts so people can continue to experience some festive cheer right up until December 23rd..

Anyone wishing to book tickets is asked to log onto https://www.gisburneparkpopup.com/drivein