This December, Sandcastle Theatre will be presenting Cinderella – the Panto in three different communities, with three different casts.

The production makes its debut in Port Elgin at the Saugeen District Secondary School auditorium for three shows on December 4 and 5.

Pantos are a very popular type of show in England at Christmas time and although they are still new to a lot of people in this area, are gaining in popularity in Canada.

“The great thing about Pantos is that they offer entertainment for everyone,” said Stephanie Fowler, Artistic Director of Sandcastle Theatre. “There is singing and dancing, tons of jokes, local references and audience participation. Some of the humour is geared to children and some to their parents, so it will be an entertaining show for all ages.”

“Pantos are full of crazy fun,” said Fowler, adding that the two step-sisters will be played by men.

Since 2002 Sandcastle Theatre has been offering young people in Grey-Bruce the opportunity to experience engaging theatre programs and performances and since that time Fowler has worked with hundreds of enthusiastic youth, bringing performances to thousands more.

The Port Elgin production of Cinderella will be performed by a cast of children, teenagers and adults. Many of the actors have joined the production along with their children or grandchildren, making it a family affair.

“My children have been involved with Sandcastle Theatre productions and classes in the past,” said Lisa Kerr, who has joined the cast with her son and daughter. “When Stephanie asked if I would be interested in joining this show with them, I thought it would be a great thing to do as a family. And I was right – it’s been a lot of fun.”

Later in December, the musical will be performed at the Roxy Theatre in Owen Sound and the Meaford Hall with actors from those communities.

“Each of the productions has a different cast and a different director,” said Jill McLellan, Director of the Port Elgin show. “Each cast has also adapted the script to suit their characters and location. So each of the productions will be unique, even though it’s the same basic play.”

There will be an evening performance of Cinderella on Friday, December 4 at 7pm and on Saturday, December 5 there will be both an afternoon matinee at 2 pm and an evening performance at 7 pm.

Refreshments will be available during the intermission and children will have the opportunity to dress up and have their picture taken with the cast after each performance.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $15 for children/students and are available at Blackboard Sound and Rabbit Dash in Port Elgin or by contacting Stephanie at sandcastletheatre@gmail.com.