Panto ticket prices slashed as seats lie empty

Dec 25 2009 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

PANTO chiefs have slashed ticket prices for Cinderella at the Citadel.

South Ayrshire Council is selling bargain bucket briefs in a bid to attract punters.

The Post told last week how one show had already been cancelled due to low numbers.

And Kilmarnock’s Palace Theatre has shifted more than double the number of tickets of the Ayr gig.

Critics have blamed the move from the Gaiety Theatre, which was shut by the council earlier this year. Now it seems panto fans have voted with their feet and forced bosses into the cost climbdown.

The council’s press release claims the “£10 ticket bonanza makes it a whole lot easier to attend Prince Charming’s ball”.

And Councillor Margaret Toner added: “I am delighted we can now offer residents and visitors an early Christmas present with this fantastic ticket offer.

“This will give people of all ages the opportunity to enjoy a fun night out at a great value cost – it really is an offer that shouldn’t be missed.”

However, the offer doesn’t extend to those who pre-booked tickets at the full price of £15.

Cut-price deals are only available on tickets that are purchased after December 17.

But councillors have rallied to defend the panto, which is winning rave reviews despite problems with the venue.

Tory councillor Bill Grant revealed: “I attended the show along with 17 of my fellow councillors on our Christmas night out.

“We thoroughly enjoyed an excellent production and all credit goes to the cast and staff at the Citadel.

“I can only compliment everyone involved given the circumstances.”