Panto is just the medicine for Evelina patients

(Photo: Karl Blanchet)

The performance, based on the story of 'Aladdin', was the climax to workshop sessions which took place over five weeks in the hospital school. The workshops were led by facilitators from Chinwag Theatre, in association with The Old Vic. Children who were well enough to take part in the workshops honed their story-telling skills and developed ideas for the Evelina pantomime.

During the performance children on the wards booed and hissed the evil magician, fought a fierce sword battle and wished for a bright blue Ferrari from the genie. Terry, one of the inpatients who took part, played ‘King Terry', who finally gave Aladdin, played by Chinwag's Anisha, his daughter's hand in marriage.

Collaboration with The Old Vic's Education Programme, facilitated by Chinwag Theatre, is part of a programme of performing arts events funded by Guy's and St Thomas' Charity to help improve the experience of being in hospital for children.