A major national performance body has become involved in Angus’s panto wars.
After Angus Council was accused of attempting to “poach” audiences away from amateur productions across the county in a poster row, the local Scottish Committee representative of the National Operatic and Drama Association (NODA) has said the authority’s position in the advertising furore is “nothing short of ridiculous.”
The row was sparked after large banners promoting the council’s professional panto Babes in the Wood at Arbroath’s Webster Theatre sprang up in neighbouring towns.
Local drama groups said it was hard enough getting bums on seats without the council trying to poach away their audiences.
Ron Stewart, local representative of Noda’s Scottish committee and a well-known figure in stage circles across Angus, said: “I must voice my support for these societies as the local representative on the Scottish Committee of the National Operatic and Drama Association.
“The council spokesperson’s statement that they do not see it (Babes in the Wood) as conflicting with other pantomimes and other Christmas shows being staged throughout Angus is nothing short of ridiculous in this time of tight finances.
“How many families can afford to attend one Christmas show, never mind two?” said Mr Stewart.
“I’m afraid local amateur companies and local halls are at the bottom of the council’s list of priorities.
“I’m afraid I would fear for the future of local pantos if advertising campaigns like this were to become a feature at Christmas time.”
NODA’s vision is that amateur theatre is successful and sustainable, providing a range of opportunities for people to develop their skills and enjoy taking part, at all levels.
The panto poster row was sparked after Susan Douglas, president of Forfar Musical Society, posted her anger on the group’s Facebook page and was soon inundated with messages of support.
Comments from locals have continued to come in and local groups hope the row might make a difference to how the council handles things next year.
Susan said the reaction to the row had included support from many who have been, or continue to be, involved in burgh groups.
“There have been some great responses from all over Angus, with many people urging anyone thinking of going to see a pantomime this year to support their local amateur societies in giving adults and children the chance to go on stage, make lifelong friends and learn skills which many feel have helped them greatly in their career and other areas of their lives,” she said.
Susan said concerns had also emerged about the impact on local youngsters if struggling panto groups were forced to fold.
“Large numbers of children take part in these pantos and get a huge amount of enjoyment from being part of it, but it takes a lot of hard work and commitment on their part and it would be a shame if that was lost.
“Our society, committee and cast members certainly appreciate all the comments and the widespread support there seems to be all over Angus for amateur pantomimes.”
One comment, from Elizabeth Stewart, said: “Supporting our local pantomimes is essential to ensure their continued success.
“It is always a financial challenge to put on a great show and Kirrie and Forfar do it year after year.
“I think you’d be surprised at the outlay on these shows. I think the word amateur fails to capture the quality and effort of those in our community who do this for the love of it.
“Let’s support our local pantomimes.”