He's Behind You! Trivia Quiz

Answer: Greek

The word comes from the Greek 'pantos', meaning 'all', and 'mimos', meaning actor. The name of pantomime originally referred to the performer rather than the performance, but the meaning gradually changed. The original pantomimes were popular in the ancient world, although no records remain of the original content.

Answer: Mummers

The mummers' plays involved groups of actors travelling from house to house, or visiting public houses, to perform their plays. They involved disguises and battles between good and evil, themes which have found their way into the modern pantomime.

Answer: Drury Lane

Both the Theatre Royal, in Drury Lane, and Lincoln's Inn Fields Theatre put on productions which included a serious performance to begin with, and finishing with a comic interlude. The early pantomimes were actual mimes, with no speaking, as only some theatres were licensed for speech. The performances were called 'dumb shows'.

Answer: Harlequinade

The traditional characters of early pantomime were Harlequin and Columbine, who was loved by Harlequin. Supporting characters were Pantaloon, usually portrayed as being Columbine's father, Pierrot and a clown. Harlequin's traditional costume included his diamond checked trousers, with Pierrot being dressed in white with his face in white makeup.

Answer: True

The principal boy is the hero of the tale, and is played by an attractive young woman. Her clothing is designed to make it clear that she is female, rather than male, although the female lead shows no sign of realising that her suitor is not exactly masculine.

Answer: Dame

The pantomime dame is one of the best known traditions, and gives the actor much scope for overacting and interaction with the audience. The dame is usually the mother of one of the main characters, although in the pantomime 'Cinderella' there are usually two dames, playing the ugly sisters.

Answer: The Pied Piper

'Aladdin', 'Jack and the Beanstalk', 'Cinderella' and 'Dick Whittington' are the most regularly performed pantomimes, with a well-known and recognisable cast of characters. From the nineteenth century onwards the actors would normally include a well known personality taking one of the leading roles. Many soap opera starlets and famous personalities have trodden the boards in pantomime.

Answer: Christmas

Pantomime is part of the Christmas season, although the performances themselves actually make no reference to Christmas, nor are there any links to Christianity. Traditionally, the pantomime season began on Boxing Day and ran throughout January, but many performances now begin before Christmas to maximise the available audience.

Answer: Oh, no it isn't!

The audience is encouraged to join in the performance, booing or hissing the villain and cheering for the hero. Apart from the 'Oh, yes it is!' and 'Oh, no it isn't!' responses, the audience will also shout 'he's behind you', as the hero pretends not to know where the villain is hiding. Of course, as soon as the hero turns around, the villain sidles around to the front.

Answer: Cow

The cow, or sometimes horse, costume is made to fit two actors, one playing the front of the animal and the other playing the rear end. The co-ordination, or lack thereof, adds to the comedy. The cow is a regular part of the cast in 'Jack and the Beanstalk', where Jack sells the animal in exchange for the magic beans. Cats do make an appearance, in 'Dick Whittington' and 'Puss in Boots', but they are portrayed by only one actor dressed in flamboyant, rather than comedic, costume.