Come one, come all to the wackiest, most hilarious family-friendly show this holiday season! The East Van Panto is a holiday show that is not to be missed. Each year, the merry crew of talented creatives selects a new story to put a lively spin on. In its twelfth year, Theatre Replacement’s East Van Panto has selected Robin Hood for this season.

Photo by Emily Cooper

If your not familiar with a panto, or pantomime, it is a show that typically happens around the holidays, and features music, comedy, a great deal of booing the bad guys and cheering the good guys, and plenty of unexpected role reversals and silly bits to turn a familiar story into a new and unique tale. Theatre Replacement’s East Van Panto: Robin Hood begins in a beautiful setting – Trout Lake Park – with Robin and their band of Merry-Thems until the naughty Sheriff arrives and announces that all parks have been privatized! Shocked by this announcement, Robin Hood also learns that everyone- including the birds and animals- has to pay to use the park they call home.  Robin Hood and the Merry Thems are incensed and head straight to the Britannia Library to read up on their rights. Along the way, they encounter other characters who join the merry mission to save East Van as they visit iconic Vancouver landmarks on their adventure to try and steal back the park and their neighbourhood from the rich and powerful.

Photo by Emily Cooper

Infused with comedic elements that theatre-goers young and old will appreciate, East Van Panto: Robin Hood will leave audiences of all ages with sore cheeks from laughing and smiling throughout. With hilarious musical numbers, over-the-top tomfoolery, and brilliant sets and costumes to enhance the storyline, this is a holiday tradition that your family will be begging to return to year after year. Shows for the East Van Panto frequently sell out, so buy your tickets now to ensure your spot.

Theatre Replacement’s East Van Panto: Robin Hood

When: November 20, 2024- January 5, 2025
Time: 2pm & 7pm shows
Where: The Cultch’s York Theatre
Address: 639 Commercial Dr., Vancouver
Phone: 604-251-1363
Website: thecultch.com