THE Wellington Pantomime Group’s Treasure Island beat all the odds by performing before three sell-out audiences at the Wellesley Theatre - even though it ended up making a small financial loss, writes Barry Knott.

The group has also revealed it considered cancelling the opening night of the show because of poor ticket sales.

However, Treasure Island went ahead on Wednesday of last week for its five-day run - while many other pantomimes were called off - and made ‘a triumphant return to the stage after two years away’.

Pantomine group chairman Pete Watts said: “Understandably, ticket sales were slower than previous years. However, after a big push for tickets in the Wellington Weekly News and on social media, people did indeed rally round and audience numbers for all seven performances were amazing - indeed, the Friday night, Saturday matinee and Sunday performances were sold out.

“Unfortunately, the pantomime group will have to absorb a small loss, but are just glad to have been able to put on the show. We knew there was a slight risk in us putting on the show in the current circumstances, but cast and crew alike were determined to go ahead - as we all said, what are we here for, if not to put on shows to entertain the public?’

“Inevitably there was a small loss overall, but we are so glad we were able to put on a pantomime this year, when so many other groups have had to cancel theirs. We’re just relieved to have been able to complete the full run of seven performances without a single case of covid affecting the cast.

“The committee would like to thank all those who supported us by coming to see a show, to the cast and crew plus all the other people who help make the show happen, and the local businesses who support us by donating items for the production or pay for an advert in our programme. We look forward to seeing you all at our next pantomime in January 2023 - look out for an announcement soon about what it is going to be.”