The Questors Theatre has been casting its spell over audiences with the annual pantomime extravaganza, Treasure Island.

At the helm of this nautical adventure is Howard Shepherdson, the seasoned director with more than 45 years of experience in theatre. 

As a long-time member of The Questors Theatre, Shepherdson reflects on the evolution of the theatre, noting its positive trajectory. 

He says: "We've reached out further into our community; we're starting to realise and work with the diverse Ealing and west London area that we sit in which is a delight to me." 

One unique aspect of Questors' pantomime tradition is the integration of young talent alongside seasoned actors. 

Shepherdson expresses his joy at witnessing the Questor's family come together, showcasing a multi-generational and diverse cast. 

He explains: "We aim to hit three or four different constituent parts of the audience.  

"And we try and hit something for each of those constituent parts of the audience. There's jokes for the older ones, there's TikTok songs for the teenagers, and there's fun things for the little kids. 

The art of doing a pantomime is trying to blend that all together to make it a really good show." 

For Treasure Island, Shepherdson promises adventure, great music, and humour, along with spectacular scenes. 

Treasure Island follows Jim Hawkins and a gang of pirates on a quest to find a lost treasure (credit: The Questors Theatre/ Instagram).

"You have to be conscious of who your audience are. It's not something you can remember at the last minute, and you have to work with that in mind, right from the start," says the director. 

Asked about the enduring allure of pantomime, Shepherdson emphasises its inclusivity and accessibility. 

He says: "I think the main thing I love about pantomime is it's not an exclusive art form.  

I also absolutely adore Shakespeare and I think Shakespeare can be very inclusive, but there are barriers for people. And I don't think there are any barriers in pantomime. 

"It's accessible for everyone and I enjoy it because of that. I also enjoy it because it's a real challenge to do well. 

"People think it's easy and you can get away with anything, but you can't. It's really got to be so tightly rehearsed and the cast have got to be able to feel confident enough to be spontaneous as well and ad lib during performances." 

As Treasure Island takes centre stage, Shepherdson hopes the audience takes away not only joy and laughter but also reflections on family, love, and the journey of self-discovery that Treasure Island's protagonist, Jim Hawkins, undergoes. 

He continues: "You don't have to have a Cinderella or Aladdin to have an enjoyable pantomime. 

"It can be a story like Treasure Island that you can put through the pantomime sausage machine, if I can put it like that, and you can still get show that the community enjoy out of it." 

The Questors Theatre and Treasure Island promises not just a swashbuckling adventure but a theatrical voyage that unites the community and celebrates the enduring magic of pantomime. 

Due to popular demand, The Questors Theatre has added an extra show slot for Treasure Island on Thursday, 28 December at 2pm. To book tickets for the remaining shows, click here.

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