The Pantomime Theatre

Unique in the world. With a universal language. Bound in tradition, yet timeless.

Danish pantomime is a wonderful mixture of many elements that are apparently quite unrelated. When the peacock folds down its wings, the stage is obviously set somewhere in old Copenhagen, at the home of stodgy Cassander who lives alone with his beautiful daughter, Columbine. We are never quite sure of what has happened to her mother. Cassander is assisted by his servant, Pierrot, who has a white face like the clown he really is. And Cassander’s adversary with whom he is constantly struggling is Harlequin – a charming, masked scoundrel with little money to his name but who is deeply in love with Columbine and often well-connected to a friendly sorcerer or fairy.

Like the characters, the music comes from many different sources. It includes Strauss, Mozart and Gounod – and, needless to say, lots of music by H. C. Lumbye, Tivoli’s in-house composer at one time. The music has been selected to underpin the plot and movements of each pantomime.

Admission to Pantomime Theatre performances is free. The current cast are listed on the notice board at the entrance to the theatre’s performing area.

Please note that the Pantomime Theatre only performs during the Summer Season.