Theatre NOVA is Ann Arbor’s resident non-profit theatre that has a passion for uplifting new plays and new playwrights. One of the ways they’ve done this in recent years is through their annual panto, setting the tone for the holiday season.
“I started going to pantos with my family when I was in eighth grade and it’s become a really fun tradition to do with my family,” Ann Arbor highschool senior Anna Regan said. “They’re really funny and great for all ages.”
One of the key aspects of the panto is it’s humor–something that shines through in this year’s production of “DJ WHITTINGTON’S KOOL KAT: A HIP-HOP PANTO.”
“It’s the perfect blend of zaniness that still has a message appropriately hopeful for the season,” Founding Artistic Director Carla Milarch said. “Plus, it’s something that multiple generations of families can enjoy together, and what is more fitting for the holidays than that?”
The production is an ode to hip-hop, its culture and philosophy, with a central idea that everyone can express themselves through art. Featuring cast members Nic Folson, Mo Murray, and Alaina Kerr, the show is bound to keep audiences of all ages engaged and laughing.
“We’re so grateful to the Ann Arbor Community Foundation Arts and Culture Program for supporting this year’s panto,” said Diane Hill, producing artistic director at Theatre NOVA. “Their generosity helps us make space for stories and styles that reflect the world around us, while keeping all the laughter and family fun audiences love about the panto.”
You can buy tickets for this year’s panto on Theatre NOVA’s website.
