Retford is set to host a second summer of slapstick, songs and silliness as Talegate Theatre are back with three more spellbinding shows as part of Panto in the Park. The hugely popular pantomimes drew hundreds of people into Kings’ Park last year and three more FREE performances are planned for 2019 starting on Tuesday 30th July with The Little Mermaid, followed by Jack and the Beanstalk and the Wizard of Oz in August.
Bassetlaw District Council will be hosting the Pantos at its dedicated open air stage in Retford’s award-winning park, so get ready for colourful costumes, lots of laughs and magical musical moments throughout the school summer holidays.

Cllr Julie Leigh, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods at Bassetlaw District Council, which is responsible for hosing the free Panto in the Park season, said: “Our Panto in the Park festival was a big hit with people of all ages and we’re thrilled to announce that Talegate Theatre will be back for three more shows this summer. They are completely free to attend and visitors can take advantage of all the other attractions that are available in Kings’ Park while they are there.

James Worthington, Artistic Director at TaleGate Theatre said; “We are very excited to be working with Bassetlaw District Council to once again bring the joy of theatre to Kings’ Park. Last year proved a huge success bringing hundreds of families to enjoy the professional pantomimes and all the park has to offer. I am sure everyone will enjoy this year’s productions full of laughter, dancing, singing and summer fun!”

Kicking off with The Little Mermaid on Tuesday 30th July, audiences will be taken ‘under the sea’ for this fast paced, highly entertaining and bubbly pantomime. Follow Lenor, our mermaid princess as she finds her sea legs in search of her happily ever after. Guaranteed to make a splash!
Next up on Thursday 15th August will be a Talegate Theatre classic – Jack and the Beanstalk. Don’t miss this GIANT panto and follow our hero Jack and his Mum, Dame Trott as they climb the beanstalk to rescue Princess Jill and their Faithful cow, Daisy. Will they defeat the giant? Will they find riches and pay the rent!

And finally, on Wednesday 21st August, click your ruby heels together and join us ‘over the rainbow’ for a magical adventure with the Wizard of Oz. Follow Dorothy and her new friends along the yellow brick road as they help the wonderful Wizard of Oz defeat the Wicked Witch of the West. This is a fresh new pantomime take on the tale we all know and love and is suitable for all ages.

All the fun-filled and family-friendly Pantos are completely free to attend, will last approx. 50mins and start at 2pm. Bring chairs, blankets and even a picnic in case you get peckish.