Our last Speaker meeting featured a talk by Sue Stops about Hotwells Pantomimes and Panto Dames.
The Hotwells panto is a long-standing community tradition in Bristol, typically staged by the Hotwells & Cliftonwood Community Association. Formerly held at the Hope Centre, the tradition continues with the group performing at the local Hope Chapel since at least 1981, even after the Hope Centre closed in 2001. The panto productions by Hotwells are known for their community spirit, a blend of humour suitable for both children and adults, dramatic sets, lavish costumes, and live music.
The pantomimes are created, written, designed, produced, and performed entirely by local community members, including volunteers from the Hotwells & Cliftonwood Community Association.
Sue Stops also spoke about her brother, Chris Harris, and his involvement with Hotwells Pantomimes. Chris Harris was a prominent Bristol actor and pantomime dame stalwart, particularly celebrated for his long-standing role as the pantomime dame at Bath’s Theatre Royal from 2001. He had a successful career in theatre, radio, and television, and was remembered as a “perfect clown” by colleagues from the Bristol Old Vic. While Chris Harris was a major name in professional pantomime in the Bristol area, the Hotwells Pantomime is a separate, long-running community production.
Thank you, Sue, for an entertaining evening.
#SoroptimistBristol”