Pupils will be treated to pantomime thanks to Out Of The Darkness
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DESPITE live performances being a no-go due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Moray's primary school children will still have a pantomime to enjoy this Christmas.
That is thanks to Elgin-based Out Of The Darkness Theatre Company, run by creative director Garry Collins and business manager Mark Sellars, who made a DVD which has been sent to all 45 primary schools in Moray.
With £4750 in funding from The National Lottery Community Fund and additional sponsorship from The Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation, Rotary Elgin and Tennants of Elgin, Out Of The Darkness produced a version of Dick McWhittington to keep youngsters entertained at Christmas time.
The production is filled with highly-talented actors and actresses – most of whom would have been performing elsewhere if not for the current pandemic.
The panto was written by Callum McLeod and directed by Janie Abbott, with Ross Allan, best known for appearing in Taggart and Still Game, featuring.
Ross Allan, from Elgin, said the main thought behind making the panto was ensuring local children had something to look forward to at the end of the school term.
"Kids at school in December know they are going to see the panto," he said. "For kids, going to a panto is a big thing.
"There is like a build up and if the panto isn't there then what is there to look forward to?
"In all of the greyness we hope it can be a bit of a spark."
Callum McLeod, from Lossiemouth, is usually involved with productions with St Giles Theatre Group and Rotaract Moray.
But this year he wrote the play – something that was new to him.
"It's something none of us had seen before," he said.
"A few theatre companies are having to adapt this year because of covid, but it's the first time Out Of The Darkness has produced a full performance using green screen technology – with the help of Brodie Young Digital Film Videography.
"If we can inspire one child to be creative then we have done our jobs. "
Director Janie Abbott added: "It has been a labour of love.
"We have been here until 4am most days so the kids can get something in time for Christmas.
"It has been done for the kids to have a great time and escape covid-19."
In normal times, Out Of The Darkness take their performance to 26 schools, community groups and care homes across Moray over a two-week period.
This year, the group has produced 1200 DVDs, with the majority going to schools and care homes free of charge and the rest being available to the public.
Members of the public can get a copy of the panto on DVD on either Saturday, December 12 or December 19 between 10am and 3pm at Out Of The Darkness Theatre Company car park on The Wards, Elgin.
Donations would be welcome, but not essential. The group will also be selling tickets for their Christmas raffle.
Any community groups or residential care homes who would like a copy of the panto sent out should email panto2020@odtheatre.org.uk.
