Heart and humour are at the centre of the Theatre Whakatāne’s latest production, the pantomime, Sleeping Beauty.

Sleeping Beauty opened at the Little Theatre last night to a packed audience and is running for the next two weeks.

This is a traditional British pantomime, packed with local humour, music and mischief, and directed by John White, whose name is behind many of the theatre’s popular shows.

This delightful adaptation follows the classic fairy tale story: the wicked witch Carabosse curses Princess Aurora, sentencing her to die by spinning wheel on her 18th birthday.

Luckily, the good Fairy Sweetheart softens the spell, turning death into a long, boring sleep – one that can only be broken by a kiss from true love.

Add a few twists, outrageous and loveable characters, and a dash of Whakatāne wit, and you’ve got a show brimming with laughter and fun for the whole family.

“This production is packed with energy, heart, and humour,” said White.

“It’s a genuinely funny show and given the amount of time that has passed since our last pantomime, the cast can’t wait to share this magical experience with the community.”

Pantomime is unlike any other form of theatre, giving audiences the opportunity to cheer for the goodies and boo the baddies, and get involved with the story without having to be on-stage themselves.

It is a great way to spend a couple of hours, escaping into a world of silliness.

Sleeping Beauty runs until November 8 at the Whakatāne Little Theatre, with eight performances only.

Tickets are available at iticket.co.nz or from the Whakatāne i-SITE.

Members of Theatre Whakatāne can enjoy discounted tickets – to take advantage of this offer, email [email protected] to arrange your membership.

■ Good to know before you go:
Bring the whole family – Sleeping Beauty is suitable for all ages and full of laugh-out-loud fun. The theatre is wheelchair accessible, and it’s a good idea to arrive at least 15 minutes early to settle in before the magic begins. A licensed bar and refreshments will be available on site, and you can pay by cash, EFTPOS, or Paywave.