Pantos aren’t really a danger? Oh yes they are, say law experts

 
8 November 2013

Health and safety experts have issued a seasonal warning to producers of Christmas pantos that costly legal action could lurk in the wings.

Pantomine producers — both in amateur dramatics and the West End — were warned to think carefully to avoid potential court cases.

In recent years a theatre spotlight has fallen into an audience and A-Team star Mister T burned his foot when a pyrotechnic went off unexpectedly.

Torchwood actor John Barrowman was taken to hospital after falling off a pantomime horse, and Janette Tough from the Krankies fell when a mechanical beanstalk collapsed, leaving her with major injuries.

Peter Forshaw, a partner at London law firm Weightmans, said: “Production companies are under pressure to push the ‘spectacular’ to new heights. This could involve the most breathtaking pyrotechnics — watch out for fire risks.

“It’s traditional for pantomimes to have multiple sumptuous scenery changes, brought in from a ‘fly tower’ above head height, so watch out for the danger of head injuries.”

Mr Forshaw, who will act in his own local Aladdin panto this Christmas, said that unless production companies can show they have taken all reasonable measures to limit the risks they and their insurers can be liable for tens of thousands of pounds.

“As an amateur performer I want each panto to be as exciting and enjoyable as possible,” he said. “I’m prepared to take the risks to get the laughs. It’s just a matter of those risks being controlled.”

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