COMPETITION: Win tickets for Chrysanthemums Pantomime Society’s production of Aladdin at the Floral Pavilion Theatre

Jan 2 2013 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

THOUGHT panto season was over? Oh no it isn’t! The country’s oldest pantomime society is starting 2013 – and its 95th year – with a production of Aladdin at the Floral Pavilion Theatre.

The Chrysanthemums Pantomime Society has performed in Wirral since 1918 when a summer production of Sleeping Beauty was staged in Vaughn Road, New Brighton.

The performance was set against a backdrop of chrysanthemums to raise spirits during the post-war gloom.

The pantomime society formed after the success of the show, taking the name of the Chrysanthemums as a reminder of the first performance.

Ninety-five years on the society’s latest pantomime, Aladdin, will be performed at the Floral from January 10 to January 13.

The traditional show promises fun for all the family and lots of panto humour.

Julie Benet from the group said: “Aladdin looks set to be one of our best ever and will be a great way to start your new year.”

The Chrysanths hold open auditions each summer for both actors and dancers to give local performers the chance to appear on stage.

This year, dancers range from four to 16 and there are four dance troupes, all with flower-themed names.

The buds are the youngest dancers and there are also the petals, the blossoms and the blooms.

Main performers this year include Terry Davies as Widow Twankey.

The first Chrysanths’ production in 1918 raised £6 for the Red Cross and Julie said the group continued to raise money for good causes.

She said: “The spirit of the Chrysanths is one of kindness, compassion and support for the local community.

“The performances are always a popular affair, guaranteed to put a smile on your face, with colourful costumes and sets, slapstick comedy together with performances from some of the best home-grown local talent.”

Tickets are available from www.floralpavilion.com or call the box office on 666 0000. Visit the Chrysanths’ website at www.chrysanths-pantomime.com

Day and Night has teamed up with the Chrysanthemums to give away four tickets for the opening night of Aladdin on Thursday, January 10.

To be in with a chance of winning, name the society’s first performance in 1918: a) Aladdin, b) Cinderella or c) Sleeping Beauty?

Send your answers – including a daytime contact number – to Chrysanths Competition, Wirral News, PO Box 48, Old Hall Street, L69 3EB or email lorna.hughes@liverpool.com

The closing date is Tuesday, January 8.