British tradition hits stage in Hudson this week

Christmas has arrived just in time at the Hudson Village Theatre. For its sixth consecutive year, the theatre presents its traditional British Pantomime, a favourite during the holidays.

Always based on a fairytale, this pantomime will take the audience on the high seas as swashbuckling pirates will take centre stage in Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic Treasure Island directed by Mary Vuorela.

This year the stage will be filled with some new faces, and some returning actors. Vuorela said that the mix of both makes working on this play a great experience.

Pantomime is always based on a classic fairytale. Vuorela chose a pirate-themed play to tie in with the success Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean.

“I looked at Sinbad and Robinson Crusoe, but Treasure Island really had the best script. The jokes just come at you fast and furious,� the director said.

Audiences of all ages can look forward to many surprises during this year’s

production.

“We have some old songs, and new songs. The actors will throw candy into the audience. There are some other surprises,� Vuorela said.

A true pantomime production requires ample audience participation. The audience is encouraged to yell things at the actors without being considered hecklers.

“It is great for introducing children to theatre. They are not forced to sit there and be quiet,� Vuorela said, who herself is a mother.

The adults are definitely not forgotten. There are many adult-oriented jokes that Vuorela said should keep the older crowd in stitches.

“What is great about panto is that it appeals to everyone. It’s what panto is all about.� Vuorela said.

The show runs from Dec. 15 until Jan. 7 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The latter two are afternoon shows only.

For reservations and tickets call Hudson Village Theater at 450-458-5361.

— Victoria Theoret