With less than six weeks to go, Barnsley churchgoers and their local community are pulling out all the stops to help bring a revival of the church pantomime.
It’s been decades since there was a pantomime in St John’s church hall, Staincross – and last year the curate in the United Benefice of Darton, Staincross and Mapplewell, the Revd John Fisher decided to try and bring the tradition back - with a performance of Cinderella.
He cast his net wide looking for young people and those young at heart to come and take part – not only on stage but back stage, in make up, admin and front stage and was thrilled to get over 30 people.
He said: “I am blown away by the support from local people. From such a small start to this big event with over thirty people involved, many of whom donate so much time from acting to lighting, to grant applying.
“Everyone’s working so hard and it’s the talk of the local community – how we can do this or find money for that – everyone is really behind it and it’s wonderful,” he added.
This Saturday (14th) there will be a coffee morning fundraiser at Darton Church hall from 10am – 12 noon to help raise much needed funds to make sure this panto is the best it can be and ensure it sees the revival of this old Barnsley tradition.
Already Fr John has roped in members of the church craft club and Muddy Boots walking club to help with costume and alterations, stage curtains, prompting and fundraising – but the show needs make-up artists, admin help, script prompters and fundraisers.
The show will have a three night run from Thurs Feb 23- Sat 25 in St John's Church Hall, Staincross.
Anyone who can help should contact Fr John on: revjohnfisher@gmail.com
Cinderella Pantomime at St John the Evangelist Church Hall, Greenside, Staincross, Barnsley S75 6GU
Thursday 23 February at 7pm.
Friday 24 February at 7pm and
Saturday 25 February at 2pm and 7pm.
Tickets: £5 adults, £3 concessions.
From Chris Miller on 01226 385064 or Maragaret Foster on 01226 382994.
Or email: staincrosspantomime@gmail.com