Photo: Frankencookie & Kevin Moxley - DST Franken-Panto Britainy Zapshalla

Looking for something to do with family this holiday season? 

Until December 21st, Dancing Sky Theatre in Meachcam is presenting Franken-Panto, a Christmas-Halloween hybrid filled with heart and audience participation. 

Actor and puppeteer Crispi Lord says the play follows the plot of both Frankenstein and the Gingerbread Man. 

“They’re really the same story, Frankenstein and The Gingerbread Man. In both a creature is created, it comes to life, it runs through town, people chase it down. It’s really the same story so (we thought) ‘How can we weave those two things together and make it a whole heck of a lot of fun for the audience?’” 

Speaking of audience, a panto-style show heavily involves the participation of audience members. 

“The show can’t happen without the audience. You’re an integral part of the story, without having to get up on stage and volunteer at all. It’s not that kind of interaction! It’s the fun kind where you get to sit back, shout out things, sing along with us, and have a great night.” 

She says the production is targeted at all age groups, and everyone will walk away appreciating the people in their lives that bring them joy.  

“When you’ve got this diverse group of people that you’ve got to hang around at the holidays, this is a great way to spend time with them where you’re not filling all that idle chit chat. We’re filling in that space. You have a great laugh together. It’s a beautiful drive out into the country. You can have a meal and this hilarious show.” 

Tickets are available at dancingskytheatre.com and ontheboards.com.