Gyles Brandreth looks at the history of pantomime for Sky

Just one of a number of festive offerings from Sky…

For many of us, a trip to the pantomime is our very first experience of live theatre and sparks a lifelong love-affair with the magic of performance. New one-off special, The Story of Panto with Gyles Brandreth, will see the author, broadcaster and all-round entertainer reveal some of the surprising origins of this uniquely British art-form.

Panto-aficionado Gyles will immerse himself in every aspect of the genre, from its roots in commedia dell’arte and Victorian music hall to scene painting, slapstick and the making of a pantomime dame. He’ll be joined on his merry way (oh yes he will!) by pantomime experts including Julian Clary and Gary Wilmot, celebrating the panto in all its vibrant, joyful glory.

Gyles Brandreth:

“Pantomime is the only uniquely British art-form and we’re telling the story of its past, present and future, exploring the state of panto in 2024 from the village hall to the London Palladium. Do join us!”

Other highlights include a behind-the-scenes look at The English National Ballet and Edward Scissorhands – Matthew Bourne’s magical dance production based on Tim Burton’s classic film.

The Story of Panto airs this December on Sky Arts