A North London pantomime has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity, thanks to two very special guest appearances. Jeremy Corbyn, the MP for Islington North, and acting legend Sir Ian McKellen have made surprise cameos in the Pleasance theatre's production of 'Wicked Witches', sending ticket sales soaring.
Star Power in Oz-lington
The adult-oriented panto, a clever mashup of 'Wicked' and 'The Wizard of Oz', is set in the fictional borough of 'Oz-lington'. In a hilarious twist, a beleaguered Dor and Tin 2.0 receive guidance via a video call from none other than Jeremy Corbyn, playing the wise Wizard of Oz-lington. The Islington North MP, appearing to beam in from his allotment, was met with cheers from the 200-strong audience.
His on-screen appearance was quickly followed by an even more unexpected cameo. Sir Ian McKellen, an Olivier Award winner, appeared as Toto the dog, complete with furry ears and a fluffy coat. The esteemed actor fully committed to the role, panting and licking the screen, and even ad-libbing a joke about his relief at no longer being in 'Cats' with James Corden, a line that sent the audience into fits of laughter.
A Financial Lifeline for Theatres
The involvement of these two national figures has had a tangible impact on the production's success. Ellie Simpson, the Pleasance's Head of Theatre, confirmed that tickets have 'flown out the door' since the cameos were announced. The venue, which had not staged a pantomime for two decades, is now considering adding extra performances to meet demand.
This phenomenon underscores a vital truth in UK theatre. Pantomime is often the financial lifeblood for regional venues, bankrolling more serious artistic work throughout the year. According to data from UK Theatre, Christmas productions in 2024 accounted for nearly a third of all performances and over a quarter of ticket revenue at 52 regional venues, generating almost £31 million.
Nick Curtis, chief theatre critic at the Standard, explained, 'There's a truism, particularly in regional theatre, that goes: 'no panto, no Pinter'. Pantos basically bankroll the rest of the year.'
The New Era of Celebrity Cameos
While big-name stars have long been a staple of panto, technology is now making it easier for smaller theatres to secure top talent. Instead of committing to a gruelling multi-week run, celebrities can contribute through short, pre-recorded video cameos or voiceovers.
This season, Stephen Fry voices the Giant in Jack and the Beanstalk at Watford Palace theatre, while Brian Cox takes on the same role at Dundee Rep. Last year, Judi Dench lent her voice to a production in Bury St Edmunds. Steve Marmion of Watford Palace theatre noted that this technological shift allows stars to 'support multiple theatres in a single afternoon with high-quality home recordings', making celebrity involvement more accessible than ever.
Back at the Pleasance, the success of 'Wicked Witches' is a testament to community spirit and a shared love of festive fun. As Ellie Simpson put it, 'Isn't this what a local MP should be doing – getting involved with the community, especially the arts... All in the name of fun and silliness.'
