FOLLOWING the sad news of the passing of much loved Barry Chuckle it has led to some reflection of Darlington Panto and the new Hippodrome in general.

The Chuckle Brothers were by far one of the best acts seen in the annual Christmas fun-fest and brought not only their genius but also some genuine star attraction.

Sadly, looking at the line up for this year’s panto we seem to be a million miles away from that level of appeal – Louie Spence, a one trick pony, and Robin Askwith, the early 70’s soft porn romp “star” are hardly going to draw in the crowds – very disappointing and certainly way down the list in comparison to other pantos in the area.

In fact, when you look at the first year of shows performed and planned, there is very little to shout about at all – where are the promised big shows that the multi-million pound investments promised? The expanded backstage area was meant to attract the major tours (Wicked, Matilda, Miss Saigon, Mamma Mia, Kinky Boots, Les Mis etc).

Where are the diverse and culturally inclusive performances that the Arts Centre used to provide?

Sadly, we still have to go to Sunderland or Newcastle for the large shows and Northern Stage or the Durham Gala for the more intimate or innovative productions.

It seems like since its reopening, the Hippodrome has become much less a theatre for the town and more a glorified plaything for the marketing and management team.

The opportunity to put Darlington (back) on the major theatre map has now been lost and with it a lot of patronage has left too. What a sad and disappointing first year for the new Hippodrome.

Annie Smith, Darlington