Cambridge panto closes: Curtain falls on Dame Trott’s Panto Palaver

alex.spencer@iliffemedia.co.uk

Published: 10:39, 24 December 2020

| Updated: 11:09, 24 December 2020

The curtain is coming down on Cambridge Arts Theatre’s Christmas pantomime after their final performances today (December 24).

This year’s festive show, Dame Trott’s Panto Palaver, was being performed live in front of socially distanced audiences with all possible Covid-19 safety measures being taken.

But after news that Cambridgeshire will move into Tier 4 Covid-19 restrictions from Boxing Day, they will be forced to close.

Chief executive of the theatre Dave Murphy thanked audiences, cast and crew for their support.

"Thank you for the music!" The final performace of Dame Trott's Panto Palaver. Picture: Martin Bond

He said: “The level of support for our pantomime has been overwhelming; so many of you have written, telephoned or even stopped me in the street to let me know how much you have enjoyed the show and how safe you have felt during your visit.

“We are so grateful that we have been able to re-open safely and welcome 5,000 adults and children to enjoy our show this Christmas. I want to publicly thank our wonderful cast, crew, creative team and all the staff at the Theatre who made the show possible. You all have reason to be proud.

“Thank you, as ever, for your steadfast support and I hope to see you in the New Year at Cambridge Arts Theatre.”

Cambridge Arts Theatre Dame Trott's Panto Palaver starred Matt Crosby and Stephen Beckett. Picture: Keith Heppell. (43714300)

Dame Trott’s Panto Palaver, will close following the 3pm performance on December 24. All performances on Boxing Day, Saturday 26 December, through to Sunday, January 3, 2021 are now cancelled.

All customers affected by this closure are entitled to a full refund or credit note and will receive an email detailing their options as soon as possible. The management explained that as the building will be closed from December 25 until further notice, please do not try to call the box office or visit the theatre. The box office will contact all bookers directly from Tuesday, December 29.

Anyone who has booked for Christmas Eve performances (11am/3pm) can still attend. If, however, you do not feel comfortable attending, for any Covid related reasons, email boxoffice@cambridgeartstheatre.com and the theatre will arrange a full refund.

Coronavirus: Cambridgeshire moving to Tier 4