| Written by The Editor, on 08-11-2007 17:01 |
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The deepening financial crisis at the now closed Whitley Bay Playhouse has led to severe budget restrictions on this year's pantomime production of Aladdin.
Instead of employing traditional Z-list celebrities in the main roles, the producers of the pantomime have been forced to use representatives from Whitley Bay District Council in order to save money. The Council representatives cost far less than real actors because they will work for free so long as it makes it looks as if they're doing something for the community. Already confirmed to appear are Mayor Harris Johnson as the evil Abanazar, Cllr Dark Eddie as the Emperor of China, Cllr Dave McGreengrass as Widow Twankee. Additionally, local MP Alan Soupmaker will play the genie, and Chamber of Trade Chairman Alan Walkonwater will play Wishee Washee. Producer, Brian Fulmer said: "Although the cast have little acting experience we don't foresee this being too much of a problem, as they are effectively playing themselves and they obviously have no qualms about looking ridiculous. "However, we do have a problem casting thetitle role and the princess, because unfortunately we just can't find anyone in the Council who is likeable enough." It is thought that some elements of the panto will have to change slightly, with the traditional 'He's behind you' scene played out with Abanazar and Wishee Washee rather than Aladdin as the Mayor tries to silence the outspoken Chamber of Trade Chairman. Also, Cllr Dave McGreengras's Widow Twankee costume will be augmented with a kipper tie from his personal collection, and it is thought that he will also bring one of the Council's brand new grass cutting machines to replace Aladdin's magic carpet. One local resident, who has complained about the grass cutting on 348 separate occasions, said: "It is not surprising they are using one of the machines as a magic carpet - I've always suspected that they must hover above the ground because they never actually cut any grass." As the Playhouse is closed 'for refurbishment' the panto will be held in the open air on performance area, also known as the muddy car park behind the Spanish City bingo hall.
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