What Is Pantomime?

For those new to theatre or more generally performing arts, pantomime, also known as panto, is a unique form of theatrical entertainment that combines music, comedy, dance, and audience participation.

Panto comes from ancient performance traditions but has evolved into a distinctly British form of family theatre, especially popular during the Christmas season.

In this short article, we’re answering some commonly asked questions about pantomime:

• Where does the word pantomime come from?
• What are pantomime’s key features?
• Why does pantomime matter?
• What are the most common tales used for pantos?
• Past & upcoming Pantos at Watford Palace Theatre

Where does Pantomime come from?

The word pantomime comes from the Greek word pantomimos, meaning “imitator of all”. In ancient Greece and Rome, pantomime referred to performances in which actors used gestures, expressions, and body movements – without spoken words – to tell stories, often accompanied by music.

Over centuries, this art form spread through Europe and mixed with other theatrical traditions, including Italy’s commedia dell’arte, which featured masked characters, slapstick humour, and improvisation.

By the 18th century, pantomime became a major part of British theatre, blending traditional storytelling with songs, jokes, and spectacular visual effects. It was particularly associated with Christmas entertainment, a tradition that continues today!

What are Pantomime’s key features?

Modern pantomime is known for its fun, exaggerated, and interactive style. Some of its most distinctive features include:

• Familiar Stories: Pantomimes are usually based on fairy tales or folk stories such as Cinderella, Aladdin, Jack and the Beanstalk, or Snow White.
• Stock Characters: Every panto features a cast of recognisable roles:
  • The Dame: a comical, larger-than-life female character traditionally played by a man in flamboyant costumes.
  • The Principal Boy: the young hero, often played by a woman.
  • The Villain: the story’s troublemaker, who the audience loves to boo.
  • The Comic: a mischievous sidekick providing slapstick humour.

• Audience Participation: Unlike most theatre, pantomime encourages the audience to shout responses such as “He’s behind you!” or “Oh no it isn’t!”
• Music and Dance: Songs, dance numbers, and humorous parodies of popular tunes are central to the performance.
• Cross-Dressing and Comedy: Gender-swapping roles and playful humour add to the fun and unpredictability of the show.

Why does Pantomime Matter?

Pantomime holds a special place in theatre history and continues to thrive because it brings people of all ages together. It celebrates creativity, comedy, and tradition while remaining fresh and adaptable. Many actors and comedians begin their careers in pantomime, learning the craft of live performance and audience interaction.

Pantomime is more than just a play – it’s a joyful, colourful celebration of storytelling and theatre. With its mix of laughter, music, and community spirit, pantomime has become a cherished tradition that continues to enchant audiences year after year.

What are the most common tales used for Pantos?

• Cinderella
• Aladdin
• Jack and the Beanstalk
• Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
• Sleeping Beauty
• Beauty and the Beast
• Dick Whittington (and His Cat)
• Peter Pan
• Mother Goose
• Robin Hood

Past & Upcoming Pantos at Watford Palace Theatre

• 2026/2027: A Christmas Carol
• 2025/2026: Jack & The Beanstalk
• 2024/2025: Aladdin
• 2023/2024: Cinderella
• 2022/2023: Beauty and The Beast

Relive Jack and the Beanstalk with our ‘Behind the Scenes’ series…