Everything you need to know about The Story of Panto with Gyles Brandreth
It’s that time of year again, Oh Yes It Is! Pantomime is a classic British pastime and in this new special, Gyles Brandreth will be taking us back to where it all began.
With the help of some famous friends, Gyles will be guiding us through the long-standing history of what makes panto special.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new documentary…
What is The Story of Panto with Gyles Brandreth about?
The official synopsis reads: “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 by pantomime experts including Julian Clary and Gary Wilmot, celebrating the panto in all its vibrant, joyful glory.”
Who is Gyles Brandreth?
Gyles Brandreth is a British personality whose career has included journalism, politics, theatre production and writing.
Born in 1948, he was the son of Charles Brandreth, whose father was a legal officer with the Allied Control Commission in Germany following Britain’s victory in World War II.
In 1973, he started presenting on LBC Radio, and continues to his day to contribute to the radio channel.
During the 1980s, Gyles hosted TV-am’s Good Morning Britain, and later became a regular contributor on Channel 4’s Countdown, making several hundred appearances in the famed Dictionary Corner.
From 1992 to 1997, he was elected as a Member of Parliament for the City Of Chester, representing the Conservative Party. He later published his diaries during his time in office titled Breaking the Code.
Since then, he has continued his appearances on TV, usually on quiz or news-based series including QI and Have I Got News For You. He is also a prominent contributor to daytime TV series including This Morning.
Since 2019 he has also been a regular face on Celebrity Gogglebox.
As an author, Brandreth has published 37 non-fiction books and 11 works of fiction. This includes a collection of novels titled The Oscar Wilde Murder Mysteries, which follows the famed writer solving crimes, and books based on games and the English language, including 2018’s Have You Eaten Grandma?
He has been married to wife, Michèle Brown, since 1973, and together they have three children.
Where and when can I watch The Story of Panto with Gyles Brandreth?
The Story of Panto with Gyles Brandreth premieres on Sky Arts on December 15 at 7pm.
It will also be available to stream on NOW.