However, Highcliffe Charity Players have decided to have a huge break with tradition and to stage a special treasure-filled ‘summer’ panto at the Regent Centre, Christchurch, next July.

This will be in celebration or the Players’ 50th anniversary.

HCP chairman, Georgina Smith said, “Charity Players have presented a seasonal panto ever since the company was formed back in 1971, but unfortunately the current pandemic has forced us to cancel our planned performances next January. However, this has given us the unique opportunity to put our panto on in the summer holidays, so we have chosen ‘Treasure Island’ with its adventurous, swash-buckling tale of sailing the high seas in search of buried treasure pursued by pirates. Perfect for the seaside.

“Our version is a mix of Robison Crusoe and Pirates of the Caribbean with a dash of James Bond for good measure, and promises to be full of surprises. Of course, there will be the usual quota of dazzling show numbers and slapstick humour, plus plenty of audience participation for all the family to enjoy. And we now have the opportunity to plan some outdoor activities too – maybe a treasure hunt around Christchurch.”

HCP’s ‘Treasure Island’ will run at the Regent Centre for 10 performances, including three matinees, a mid-morning and tea time show, from 24 to 31 July 2021. Early Bird Tickets £13.50 (full price) and £12.50 (concession/child) are on sale from the Regent Centre box office by phone: 01202 499199 and online: www.regentcentre.co.uk .