CHRISTMAS IS COMING at Greenwich Theatre

Greenwich Theatre’s loved and lauded Christmas panto enters a new era this year with a different dame and a different writer for its production of Robin Hood.

The legend that is Andrew Pollard has moved on to pastures new after more than a decade ruling the roost in south-east London. But don’t despair – our favourite villain Anthony Spargo is back not only as the evil sheriff but also as the show’s writer while Phil Sealey is taking over as the fabulously OTT mistress of ceremonies.

In case you’re unfamiliar with his work, Phil has extensive panto form with a list of credits that include acclaimed turns in Dick Whittington, Jack And The Beanstalk and as Widow Twankey in Aladdin, so you’ll be in safe hands.

Director Matt Aston’s production opens on 24 November and more than 65 performances are scheduled before it closes on 8 January. Needless to say, tickets are selling like hot cakes.

Even pantos have an occasional day off, however. When that happens on 6 December, Greenwich Theatre opens its doors to These Hills Are Ours, a two-hander about running, wild places and cities with Daniel Bye and Chumbawamba founder member Boff Whalley.

And on the 12th and 19th John O’Connor returns in his best Charles Dickens’ guise – and it really is the best - with the evergreen European Arts Company production of A Christmas Carol. Along with Robin Hood, it’s guaranteed to fill you to bursting with the spirit of Yuletide.

For full details of all the festive fun, go to https://greenwichtheatre.org.uk/whats-on/