This year marks the 10-year anniversary of Opening Nite Theatre Society’s Christmas pantomime, with a performance of Sleeping Beauty.
Every year Camille Atebe writes a new play, based on a fairy tale or well-known story. Loosely following the old British panto tradition, each year the show features two fairies (Nice and Naughty, played by Jennie Bice and Camille Atebe), a panto dame or two (men playing women), a hapless male lead who has to win over the girl of his dreams, and lots and lots of great music.
Many Missionites are already familiar with the ONTS panto, having been regular patrons for many years. Others have never been, but whether you know the genre or not, you’re in for a great time.
This year the story follows Sleeping Beauty, a princess with a mind of her own and no desire to follow the crowd.
When Fairy Naughty’s curse puts her to sleep, it comes down to Prince Charming, who is definitely not real royalty, to wake her up and save the kingdom.
Along the way they encounter a myriad of characters, from Snow White to Hansel and Gretel.
In the traditional British panto, celebrities and public figures often star in the show, and this one features well-known fiddler Jennie Bice, The Railyard’s Newton Enoch, and many other familiar faces.
This family show has something for all ages, and runs Dec. 9-18 and Jan. 6-8, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $15 for adults, and $5 for children. They can be purchased at the door (33223 North Railway Ave.) or at openingnitetheatre.com.
