Wizard of Oz panto cancelled due to new Covid measures in Wales

LHK Productions have been showcasing their wizardly wicked Christmas pantomime, The Wizard of Oz, at the Stiwt in Rhos.

It starred multi-talented musician, Dancing on Ice and Hollyoaks Star Ray Quinn as the Magical Wizard of Oz.

Ray Quinn.

But, like many other shows, the panto's dates after Christmas Day have had to be cancelled.

The Stiwt posted: "Following the recent announcement introducing social distancing to help reduce the spread of Covid and the Omicron variant we have been forced to cancel performances of the Wizard of Oz, from and including the Boxing Day performance. (26th to 31st inclusive)

"We are very mindful of our staff, cast and crew’s safety. And of course, that of our audiences.

"With that in mind, we’re sorry that we’ll no longer be able to bring you these shows, as everyone has worked so hard. And, to date, we have managed the problems so well.

"We’ll be getting in touch with everyone affected when we know further and more detailed information. This is a very busy time for the theatre and we ask for your patience. Please do not contact our box office – please bear with us, we'll be in touch as soon as we can.

"Thank you, as ever, for your support and patience."

New Covid restrictions are to be introduced in Wales from Boxing Day.

The measures are a revised version of Alert Level Two to respond to the new Omicron variant and are designed to help keep businesses open and trading and protect customers and staff.

The regulations bring back protections in hospitality businesses, including licensed premises, and in cinemas and theatres as they re-open after the festive period.

Theatr Clwyd in Mold has also cancelled performances of its Beauty and the Beast panto after Christmas Day.

After have sell-out shows before the Welsh Government's announcement, the theatre said it was now in an impossible situation.

The theatre posted: "Sadly, due to the recent announcement introducing social distancing to help reduce the spread of Covid and the Omicron variant we have been forced to cancel the following upcoming events: Beauty & The Beast from 25 Dec

"We’re very sorry for the disappointment, this is an incredibly busy time for the theatre and with such a huge number of people to get in touch with we’re asking your patience while we process all bookings. There is no need to contact our box office – please bear with us, we'll be in touch as soon as we can.

"Thank you for your continued support and love for the arts."