Greek gods, subway jokes and a very buff reluctant hero: East Van Panto is back.
The Cultch and Theatre Replacement are staging East Van Panto: Hercules at the York Theatre, the 14th year of Vancouver’s beloved holiday tradition. As always, familiar tales get a local twist, with references to the city, political jabs and silliness for kids and adults.
The plot
The villain is Hades, God of the No-Fun-Derworld, whose development plans include the Arbutus Subway System, or A.S.S. Expansion. He also has his eye on Science World, which he wants to turn into a monument to old-fashioned masculinity. Standing in his way are Hera, Goddess of East Van and neighbourhood activist, and her adopted son Hercules, who is more focused on his abs than on saving the city.
The team
- Written by: Pedro Chamale and Marcus Youssef
- Directed by: Chelsea Haberlin
- Original music: Veda Hille
- Cast: Jacob Woike, Jason Sakaki, Meaghan Chenosky, Raugi Yu and Sara Vickruck, with a chorus of Studio 58 performers
Under the jokes, it’s a story about growing up and rethinking strength as something generous and vulnerable, in the words of Theatre Replacement artistic director Maiko Yamamoto.
Get your tickets
Demand is reportedly at record levels, and the run has been extended by a week, with the closing date moved from January 3 to January 10. Check The Cultch for dates and tickets.
Who’s coming with you? Tell us your favourite Panto moment.
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