Pantomime goers are said to be tiring of the same old stories, of charming princes, no mortal danger, and a rousing happy ending where everyone is happy (except for Buttons, and everyone who is left behind while the lead characters go off to a life of untold riches and good fortune).
With the growth of bad news, Panto goers want a good dose of misery, and that is where Kes, the Pantomime is set to be popular.
Based on Barry Hines's classic misery fest 'A Kestrel for a Knave' and taking some lead from the film, it is set to star that bloke from Emmerdale as Billy Casper, Brian Glover's acting son Crispin as the bullying PE Teacher, and Keira Knightly as the voice of Kes.
Speaking to us earlier, Theatre Manager Fred Bloggs said 'Kes the Pantomime has something for everyone, whether it is misery, an unrelenting feeling of doom, or cheery songs like 'I Wish I could fly (right up to the Sky)', 'Someday I'll Fly Away' 'Flying without Wings' and specially written songs 'Be Brave, Billy Be Brave' and the haunting glass harmonica solo 'Billy Casper's Lament'
Orville the Duck was said to be in contention for being in the world premiere, but is busy doing his one duck show in Preston, called 'Where the Sun don't shine'. It is aimed at adults.
