From the comedic minds behind Horrible Histories comes a journey back through Christmas’ past. Park up, turn off your engines and settle in to watch as the festive story unfolds on stage; delving into the history behind the yuletide holiday with wit and originality. If you’re tired of battling through chaotic panto crowds and searching sticky-floored theatres for a seat, but are desperate to get out the house for some family time, then we have the answer. Horrible Histories Car Park Panto is coming to AJ Bell Stadium in Manchester on December 29 and 30.
Make sure to stock up your cars with candy canes, popcorn, gingerbread men and – if your partner has graciously taken on the role of designated driver – a toasty flask of mulled wine. This car park panto will have you and the family munching away with avid fascination as you follow a young boy on his mission to save Christmas from a suspiciously jolly man dressed in red. The trip back through the history books will come with a whole host of famous figures, with the adventurous protagonist enlisting the help of Oliver Cromwell, Charles Dickens, King Henry VIII and St. Nicholas on his festive quest.
This is just the dose of Christmas spirit your little ones will need to tide them over after the festivities of the big day are winding down: theatrical fun and a history lesson rolled into one. You’ll discover the true roots of Christmas traditions from the comfort of your car, following in the tire tracks of over 35,000 people who scooped up tickets to the sold-out play last year.
There’s also plenty of audience participation to keep you immersed in the story – get ready to honk your horns and yell out ‘he’s behind you’ until your voice goes hoarse. With tons of heart and hilarity, this unique panto will not just delight the kids, but may even teach the adults something new.
The touring show is making its way around the UK with a handful of dates, so if you aren’t from this area but this sounds like your kind of thing, keep an eye out for when they might pop up closer to home. On the other hand, if AJ Bell Stadium is indeed in your area and you can already feel the kid’s hopeful stares once they get wind of its impending arrival, then you can grab tickets here.