Panto: A Lifeline for Actors in the UK
One song can strike fear into the hearts of actors during the winter months. But for actress Alicia Belgarde, it's a different story.
"I've got so many friends in different pantos across the UK, and we're all asking each other, 'What songs do you have? Have you got 'Golden' from the K-Pop Demon Hunters?'" Belgarde says.
Despite avoiding the chart-topping K-pop song's high solo, Belgarde still adores the world of panto.
"It gets you into the Christmas spirit, and I love working with experienced panto performers. I can learn so much from them," she tells BBC Newsbeat.
"It's a real skill, and you're learning from the best."
Belgarde is bringing Aurora to life in the stage adaptation of Sleeping Beauty by Central Theatre in Chatham this festive season.
The UK Pantomime Association reports that approximately 260 pantos are taking place across the UK this season.
However, the path to panto stardom isn't without its challenges. Belgarde notes that roles are highly sought-after, even for actors with other commitments.
"When I'm not waiting for true love's kiss, I'm playing Monica Geller in the UK tour edition of the Friends musical parody," she says.
"We have a gap over Christmas, and I was fortunate to audition and find a panto that fit my schedule. Otherwise, I'd have no income during the festive period."
Simon Sladen, chair of the UK Pantomime Association, a charity dedicated to panto, explains that Belgarde's situation is not uncommon.
"Panto is your one time of the year where you can guarantee work, especially if you've performed at the same venue for multiple years," he says.
"Between November and January, a quarter of the year, you know you'll be in a job you love, enjoy, and bring joy to others."
While fame can lead to "big bucks," Sladen notes that ensemble roles still require dedication.
"Equity and other unions are working to protect performers' rights," he says.
"Not every panto offers an Equity standard contract, so there are considerations to be made to ensure fair treatment and compensation."
Despite the competition, panto remains a desirable opportunity.
"I think panto's respect and quality have attracted more people," Sladen says.
"It's a great space to build skills and your public profile."
Belgarde agrees, seeing panto as a chance to learn from seasoned actors.
"I observe and absorb little skills every day in rehearsals," she says.
"I'm trying to be a sponge."
Sladen highlights the networking benefits of panto.
"Being respectful, punctual, and having a good work ethic can enhance your industry standing," he says.
"It can also help when auditioning for other roles or opportunities."
Panto's popularity has soared post-pandemic, with record-breaking box office statistics.
"Maybe we all need panto more than ever now," Sladen says.
Despite its 16th-century origins, panto continues to evolve.
The cheesy jokes and fabulous dames remain, but Sladen notes a shift towards more queer narratives and characters, as well as increased racial diversity and representation of UK values.
"We're moving beyond the princess-only-wishes-to-marry-a-prince narrative," he says.
"We have strong characters driving the narrative. Some shows now even skip the wedding at the end because it's 2025."
Belgarde describes the panto experience as a "pressure cooker," emphasizing the quick bond formation due to intense rehearsal periods.
"It's lovely to build these relationships over the Christmas period," she says.
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