Solihull and Bromsgrove Theatres Bring Panto Back After Closures

Two local theatres in central England are reviving the festive tradition of pantomime after a difficult spell. The Core Theatre in Solihull and Artrix in Bromsgrove are staging new productions this season, inviting families back to vibrant community venues.

Reviving a cherished tradition after closures

The Core Theatre presents Aladdin as its first pantomime in three years, following a closure in September 2023 caused by the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete, commonly known as RAAC, in the building. Artrix, Bromsgrove's arts venue, had shut in 2020 when the previous owners went into liquidation. The two theatres found a way to keep pantomime alive by supporting each other.

Solihull Council's Alison McGrory, assistant director for communities and partnerships, emphasises how important pantomime is to local families.

Panto has become part of families traditions in Solihull, McGrory says, underscoring the community's drive to reopen.

The Core reopened in May, and a close partnership with Artrix helped keep theatre life alive in the region. Artrix itself had a history of closures; reopening provided a permanent home for The Core during repairs.

In Bromsgrove, volunteers formed Bromsgrove Community Arts and leased Artrix from the council. The venue reopened in April 2024 and now runs entirely on volunteer energy.

Suzanne Lane, director and producer of the Bromsgrove pantomime, says the effort shows what locals can achieve when they come together.

We are thriving and already booked for next year, with strong demand for 2027, Lane adds. The pantomime has become the bread and butter of the business, helping the venue cover a large share of its annual income in December.

Sarah Lake Wynen, who plays Squire Trelawney in Bromsgrove’s panto, says local actors can work in their own town again, which means a lot to the community.

She adds that arts and acting have a chance to rebound after a tough period thanks to community support.

Morgan Philpott, who portrays Widow Twanky in Solihull, calls The Core the lifeblood of the community and stresses that these venues need to be cared for.

The two theatres are already building momentum with upcoming shows, including Rapunzel in Bromsgrove, which is already attracting ticket buyers.

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Expert comment

An arts sector analyst notes that these community-led venues demonstrate resilience by relying on volunteers, especially during peak festive seasons. Pantomime continues to provide a predictable revenue boost for small theatres beyond grants and donations.

Summary

Solihull and Bromsgrove reveal how pantomime can anchor local theatre life after closures. The combined effort of volunteers, councils and community groups has revived venues and drawn families back to live shows. The coming seasons, including Rapunzel in Bromsgrove, signal ongoing demand for community arts.

Key insight: Local theatres run by volunteers can rebound from closures by delivering beloved family pantomimes, strengthening community arts. BBC News

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