IT'S a case of the show much go on for a popular Northwich pantomime with the production online for theatre goers to enjoy from the comfort of their own homes.

Once Upon a Pantomime is a traditional family panto featuring a host of everyone's favourite characters, from Buttons to Dame Trott, Snow White to Abanazar, with all the action being behind closed doors this year.

Anton Benson, who is producing the show, said although 2020 has been difficult he was hoping this unique opportunity would mean both cast and crew members could end it on a high.

Northwich Guardian: Once Upon a Pantomime will be streaming online until January 1.

The set for this year's panto was as lavish as ever.

He said: "We are devastated not to be able to present our usual live panto at Northwich Memorial Court this Christmas, but we really do need your support to get us through this difficult year.

"The show was filmed in a covid-secure environment behind closed doors, live on stage.

"Although it was surreal to perform a panto with no audience in the theatre, everyone involved was just so glad to be back on stage doing what they love.

"It's actually one of the biggest panto's we've ever put on and it's also one done in the shortest amount of time, with the set put up and taken down again within four days.

"We had one day of rehearsals and then just one day to film but everyone involved was just so happy to be back."

The story of this year's spectacle is a very apt one as it is set around the concept of Christmas being cancelled by Queen Karona, who casts her cruel curse after not being invited to take part in the pantomime.

Northwich Guardian: Once Upon a Pantomime will be streaming online until January 1.

Will Queen Karona be stopped in her quest to cancel Christmas?

With a vow to become the Queen of Pantoland, the race is on to stop Karona in her quest and save the beloved panto.

Anton added: "With a sprinkle of fairy dust we have created a magical online show which features our very own Ryan Greaves, Georgie Jackson and Kate Salmon alongside a star studded line up of celebs and regulars from our other panto productions.

"For £15, less than the cost of one full price ticket to our Northwich Panto, you can stream our online panto to your whole household - and you don’t even need to leave your living room.

"The production of Once Upon A Panto has allowed us to create over 30 jobs within our industry, plus much needed work for suppliers of set, costumes, props, effects, sound and lighting.

"Please consider buying a ticket.

"Please consider buying another one as a gift.

"Your support will ensure we are back next Christmas with our biggest ever live panto production at Northwich Memorial Court."

Once Upon a Pantomime is suitable for children aged between 5-105 and pay-per-view tickets are £15.

Streaming will take place December 14 and January 1 2021.

You can book your seat now by visiting www.antonbensonproductions.com.