Aberdeen entertainment chiefs have cancelled the city’s biggest pantomime after deciding it would be “impossible” to continue the popular festive tradition this year.
The staple His Majesty’s Theatre event, which helps cover the venue’s costs for the rest of the year, has been in doubt for months.
But just weeks ago Aberdeen Performing Arts (APA) was still hopeful it might not have to “cancel Christmas”.
However it has now been announced that the production of Beauty and The Beast will not go ahead as planned.
It has been rescheduled and will now run between December 4, 2021 and January 9, 2022.
A company statement said: “We would like to thank all our customers for their understanding at this time.
“We recognise that our annual pantomime is a highlight of the year for many people, but we are working hard to ensure we have a bumper programme in place and look forward to welcoming you back to our venues once it is safe to do so.”
All existing bookings will automatically be transferred to next year and ticket holders will be contacted to confirm the details.
Last month, Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop announced the Performing Arts Venue Relief Fund, which has provided “hope” to arts organisations such as APA.