This year’s Christmas pantomime at the Gaiety Theatre will go ahead despite the global pandemic.

The decision comes after UK-based Shone Productions, which has a three-year contract to stage the annual panto, agreed to use a cast of people who live in the island rather than actors from elsewhere.

The Manx actors will be directed virtually.

Border restrictions mean it is not possible to bring the actors and production team to the island in December.

The government will now extend the company’s contract by one year to include the 2022 festive season.

In another plot twist, the pantomime itself will now be Sleeping Beauty and not Snow White, as previously advertised and there will be four fewer shows.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said: ’It has been a challenging time for theatres across the globe, so I am delighted that everyone involved has been able to think creatively to make this happen.

’I am sure it will give families and in particular children something to look forward to at Christmas.’

Emma Callin, the head of Villa Gaiety and The Arts, said: ’After such a difficult year, we have been overwhelmed by the support of our audiences and are thrilled to be able to repay their kindness by finding a way to present the much-loved Christmas pantomime.

’We are thrilled that in the theatre’s 120th year we will again hear the traditional boos, hisses and laughter.

’The continuation on level four of the border framework does however mean a number changes are being made to Villa Gaiety’s autumn and winter programme - as acts from the UK and further afield will not be given exemption certificates to perform.’

The Villa Gaiety team is working to reschedule affected shows to new dates in 2021.

Dr Allinson added: ’I know this is disappointing for ticketholders, but we are in the process of rescheduling these shows and finalising new dates, so people will not miss out on watching their favourite acts.

’All locally-produced shows and events at the theatre will go ahead as planned.’