A FESTIVE panto adventure will transport audiences over the rainbow this December.
The Brunton’s production of The Wizard of Oz will run at both the Corn Exchange in Haddington and Loretto Theatre in Musselburgh, promising a magical, musical journey for all ages.
Written by Jack Nurse and Robbie Gordon of Wonder Fools, the creative team behind last year’s hit A Christmas Carol, this year’s pantomime is packed with chart-topping pop hits, original songs and laugh-out-loud comedy.
It features iconic characters, flying monkeys and "more sparkle than a Tin Man’s tin foil hat" in a reimagined, interactive retelling of the classic tale.
Bruce Strachan, an experienced theatre maker with more than 25 years in the industry, will direct the production.
Mr Strachan said: "I am absolutely delighted to be asked to direct The Wizard of Oz this year.
"I live locally in Musselburgh and my daughter is a regular with the Brunton Youth Theatre, so I am very aware of what an institution the Brunton Panto is, how important it is within the community and I’m really excited to be a part of it.
"As a Queen Margaret University staff member, I know how hard the team here work on the costumes every year and I am really looking forward to working with them and the wider Brunton team to bring this brilliant and iconic story to life.
"I can’t wait to get started."
Mr Strachan has worked with companies including the National Theatre of Scotland, The Arches, TAG, Hull Truck and the National Youth Theatre.
He is artistic director of Nonsense Room Productions and This is My Story Productions, and lectures in acting and performance at Queen Margaret University in Musselburgh.
The Brunton’s pantomimes are known for their community focus and interactive style, and this year’s show will once again feature a chorus of young local performers.
Participation is free, offering children a unique chance to work in a professional production environment.
A parent of a 2024 chorus member said: "She really enjoyed learning and performing the dance numbers, and we were so proud watching her on stage and seeing her grow in skills and confidence.
"The show itself was a joy to watch.
"Incredibly funny, fabulous choreography, it was lovely to see how much the kids were integrated into the whole production."
Tickets for The Wizard of Oz are on sale now on The Brunton's website or by calling 0131 653 5245.
The Brunton’s pantomimes are a highlight of the festive season for families and schools alike.
A teacher who took pupils to last year’s show said it was "a great performance that all the children enjoyed and plenty of jokes to keep the adults entertained too", adding: "The cast were professional, fun and had a good rapport with the audience from the offset."
The 2025 pantomime will star The Brunton’s popular panto dame Graham Crammond and promises a mix of festive fun, heartwarming moments and surprise twists.
The Brunton Theatre Trust is supported by East Lothian Council and Creative Scotland.
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