Century Church Theatre presents British pantomime of Aladdin

This week, the Century Church Theatre brings a different spin to the story of Aladdin with the traditional British pantomime, Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp. It plays at the Century Church Theatre on Main St. in Hillsburgh, December 9 at 2:30 p.m. and December 8 and 9 at 7 p.m. Traditional pantomimes have been performed for generations in Britain and are usually based on a fairy tale or a nursery rhyme. The story is then modernized to include references to celebrities, politicians, music, movies or current news headlines. Add to the mix local references, corny jokes and slapstick gags and you have the basis for a pantomime. As always with a traditional British pantomime, there is a female character referred to as the "Dame" of the production. The "Dame" is played by a man, which adds to the comedic wit of the story. Then you have the hero of the play, which is usually a male character, referred to as the "Principal Boy". This character is always played by a woman, further adding to the twists and turns of the story. Having a man play a woman and vice versa isn't enough to make a traditional pantomime. You need music and dancing, colorful costumes and makeup, and lots of goodies and baddies to get the audience involved. Audience participation is part of the magic of a pantomime. Unlike a regular theatrical production, the audience is encouraged to cheer for the good guys and boo for the bad guys, creating an energized performance the whole audience will enjoy. Similar to the Disney version, this year's production of Aladdin has some of the same characters and as well as few new hilarious ones. Tickets are $10 each including tax, and can be purchased at the Erin Toybox, the Erin and Hillsburgh libraries, or by calling the Box Office at 519-855-4586. A handling charge is applicable for phone orders using VISA. Visit www.centurychurchtheatre.com for more information.