You might have thought panto was now behind you…but oh no it isn’t because February is when the Kent Police cast take to the stage.
The pantomime group was formed in 1998 by ex-traffic policemen Alan Davison and former officer Ken Pickett. They worked together to produce a “one off show” that was put on at the Theatre Royal in Margate in January of 1999. It was performed by serving police officers from Thanet who, in their own time, worked tirelessly to produce a fantastic show.
Due to the success of the first show, and the large amount of charity money raised, it was decided to put on a charity panto for the community each year until they got fed up with it!
Over the years heroes have vanquished many a foe and rescued dozens of damsels. Panto Dames have performed many dodgy ditties and dances and the cast and crew have probably produced more custard pies than Mr Kipling.
With public support, the panto has raised some £130,000 for local and national charities over the years.
Traditionally, the panto has taken to the stage of The Theatre Royal at Margate, but due to this being closed for refurbishment they have found a new home at The Taylor Hall, St Lawrence College, Ramsgate.
The cast and crew are connected to the police, be it serving officers, police support staff, volunteers or retired.
This year’s show is Snow White and the Several Plods and its one of Alan’s scripts. Sadly Alan passed away earlier this year and the team say it is only fitting that they perform his show as he would like it.
The cast and crew take to the stage from Thursday 16th February through to Saturday 18th February, shows are twice daily at 2pm and 7pm with a BSL interpreter attending on Thursday afternoon.
Tickets are £15 adults, £13 seniors and £10 children or £40 for a family tickets. There is a booking fee.
Book your tickets at www.thepolicepanto.co.uk.
This year’s charity is Parkinson’s UK (Thanet) in memory of Alan Davison.
