“In 1986, the first ever Panto was performed because a number of parents were disappointed that there didn’t seem to be any commercial pantomimes being produced that were suitable for young children either to watch or take part in nearby. Panto had started to become a vehicle for pop stars and soap stars to up their profile and with that came high ticket prices. Several people, including Martin and Celia, got together to produce a good old traditional show. (Oh no, they didn’t – Oh yes, they did!) The rest, as they say, is history!”
*Based on an excerpt from “Entertaining Launton” by Pat Tucker
The group started fairly small but has grown over the years and in 2020 we had over 100 people performing in, or helping with, the shows.
Our pantomimes were originally performed In Launton Parish Hall then in 1999 we moved to Cooper School Performance Hall. This was because we could not get an entertainment licence from Cherwell District Council that year, as the electrics in the Parish Hall needed some work. It proved to be a successful move as our audiences continued to grow and grow. So far 34 pantomimes have been performed! We aim for the big theatre effect and love to have special effects, magic, music and dance as well as the traditional elements of a family pantomime.
But in 2018 we produced “Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” which sold out several days before performance.
We also sing at the local fete in Launton, as well as carol singing around the village at Christmas time.
