Crawley venue hoping panto plans can go ahead

The hope is to stage Dame Dolly Saves Panto from Friday, December 18-Sunday, January 3.

Paul Hendy, writer, producer and director with Evolution Productions, said: “In these uncertain times The Hawth is absolutely delighted to be able to bring a big dash of joy and magic to families this festive season with Dame Dolly Saves Panto, starring Crawley’s pantomime favourites Michael J Batchelor and Richard Franks.

“The show, which is brought to The Hawth by Evolution Productions, is best described as panto’s greatest hits and tells the story of what happens when a baddie attempts to steal the joy of pantomime. Audiences are promised a fun-sized family show featuring all their favourite pantomime moments.

“This performance will mark Michael J Batchelor’s seventh year performing in Crawley for the festive season. As The Hawth’s resident dame, he has developed a huge following of fans who often comment that Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without him. Michael will be joined on stage by the much-loved and hilarious Richard Franks, with the pair creating a comedy double act not to be missed!”

Paul added: “Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without pantomime, so we are absolutely delighted to be able to present this fun-sized panto. The reaction we’ve already had to this news has been incredible and actually very emotional. The show will be joyous, uplifting and funny… the perfect antidote to 2020!”

Dame Dolly Saves Panto will be performed to a socially distanced audience; there will be fewer people than normal in the auditorium to ensure the appropriate distancing between audience members. Tickets at hawth.co.uk.