📙 Chapter 4: A Modern, Thriving Society
What is pantomime?
Correct answer: A traditional form of British theatre usually performed at Christmas
A A type of opera
✓ A traditional form of British theatre usually performed at Christmas
C A type of dance
D A silent performance
💡 Explanation
Pantomime is a traditional form of British theatre, usually performed at Christmas.
Key facts to remember
- Shakespeare — most famous English playwright
- Plays: Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, Midsummer Night's Dream, Macbeth
- Globe Theatre — reconstruction of Shakespeare's theatre; West End famous for musicals
- Pantomime — traditional Christmas theatre with audience participation
- Other playwrights: Marlowe, Wilde, Shaw, Pinter
- Andrew Lloyd Webber — famous for musicals
Why this is the answer
From the official Life in the UK study material — 4.5.2 Theatre:
The UK has a long tradition of theatre. William Shakespeare is the most famous playwright in the English language. His plays include 'Romeo and Juliet', 'Hamlet', 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', and 'Macbeth'. The Globe Theatre in London is a reconstruction of Shakespeare's original theatre. London's West End is famous for its theatres and musicals, similar to Broadway in New York.
Pantomime is a traditional form of British theatre, usually performed at Christmas. It is based on fairy tales and involves audience participation, with the audience shouting 'He's behind you!' and 'Oh no he isn't!' Other famous British playwrights include Christopher Marlowe, Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw, Harold Pinter, and Andrew Lloyd Webber (musicals).
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