‘The North East seem to be loving it!’ Christmas panto created for younger children proves to be a big hit

South-Shields based theatre company Tree Stump Theatre, have created a special pantomime for children under seven years of age.

The pantomime which is named The Last Snowflake, is a 50 minute show created especially for young children who may find The Customs House main Christmas pantomime overwhelming.

The plot revolves around the main character Dennis, played by Glen Richard Townsend. Dennis lives in fictional town, Cooksonville where every Christmas special wish-granting snowflakes fall. However this year, the snow has stopped, and there is only one special snowflake left. Dennis and his friends embark on a winter adventure to bring the magical snow back to the town.

Other characters and cast members include Merry played by Melissa Sert, Mr Chilly Frozenpants played by Andrew Dawson and Snow Queen played by Eleanor Chaganis.

The show has been created and written by Dale Jewitt and Eleanor Chaganis. Eleanor will also be performing in the show, while Dale has taken on the role as Director. They have both previously starred in The Customs House pantomimes, before going to create their own theatre company.

Eleanor and Dale both have extensive experience in children’s theatre, and were supported by both The Customs House and South Tyneside Council in their new venture which began in the lockdown of 2020. They went on to perform in South Tyneside’s parks and outdoor spaces. They said: “This was perfect for our sustainable and eco ware ethos as we were using what nature had to offer as our stage.”

After two successful summer tours, Tree Stump Theatre were approached by The Customs House to create a special wintery tale specifically created for under sevens. “We wanted to create a festive show with lots of fun, creativity and imagination - something different to a classic panto.”

Tree Stump Theatre pride themselves on using original songs, sustainably sourced props, set and costumes and big bold characters, to entertain the little ones of the North East. They said: “We are so proud of what we’ve created. Audiences around the North East seem to be loving it!”

The Last Snowflake will be performing at The Customs House until December 31. Tickets start from £12 and can be purchased here.