Jeremy Corbyn to make cameo in North London drag panto
– 2 min read
Jeremy Corbyn, the MP for Islington North and former Labour leader, is set to swap the political stage for the theatrical one this Christmas, making a surprise cameo in a festive drag pantomime at the Pleasance Theatre in north London.
Corbyn will appear as the “Wizard of Oz-lington” in Wicked Witches: A Popular Panto, a “gloriously camp” production inspired by Wicked and The Wizard of Oz. The show, written and directed by Shane ShayShay Konno, marks the Pleasance Theatre’s first pantomime in over two decades and celebrates its 30th anniversary.
Joining Corbyn on stage will be drag artist Gigi Zahir as the wicked witch Adelphaba, Eleanor Burke (aka Apple Derrieres) as the good witch Kelly Oz-Born, Ro Suppa as Dorothy (or “Dor”), Lew Ray as Tin 2.0 and Nick MacDuff as the Scarecrow. The production promises high-energy performances, pop song parodies, and a blend of festive fun and cheeky humour.
Corbyn, who will appear via pre-recorded video rather than live performance, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “The Pleasance has been at the heart of our community for 30 years, and local theatre like this deserves our support. Panto brings people together – it’s fun, inclusive and a brilliant celebration of creativity.
"It’s a pleasure to conjure up a little festive magic with the Pleasance in their 30th year. Local theatre is where the real wizardry happens – sparking imagination and spreading a bit of joy.”
Ellie Simpson, Head of Theatre at Pleasance London, added: “Jeremy’s as much a part of Islington as the Yellow Brick Road is of Oz – so who better to play the Wizard of Oz-lington? His cameo adds a touch of local sparkle to our wickedly funny festive panto.”
The pantomime will run from 21 November - 31 December, with two versions available: one suitable for all ages and another adults-only edition featuring extra drag cabaret flair. Tickets range from £10 to £35 and are available via the Pleasance Theatre website.
