The pantomime tradition is the longest-running theatrical form in Jamaica. And, after 84 years, it has had to find new ways to entertain audiences year after year.

Anya Gloudon Nelson, principal director of the Pantomime Company, said: “The good thing is Jamaica is ‘always keeping’, there is never a dull day on this island which is why a common saying is, ‘This must be God’s favourite channel.’ This is the premise of the 2024 national pantomime Channel 876 produced by the Pantomime Company.”

In this story, Fawda Jack sits in his celestial palace watching the village of Harvest Mount, where they live in harmony, blessed by a fruitful land that provides produce for the community processing depot. Lou, the troublesome son of Fawda Jack, has his ideas on how to switch things up in Harvest Mount and make the show spicy.

When Clifford’s son Desmond returns from overseas, Lou employs all his tricks to test the harmony of Harvest Mount. Despite warnings from his sister Gabby that his meddling in the lives of the villagers could be disastrous, Lou persists. When ‘story come to bump’, even Lou is stunned by the effects… But, even in dark times, there comes daylight. Unity, harmony and love is found once more and Fawda Jack can continue to enjoy Channel 876.

The pantomime team has brought together talented individuals to bring the story to life at the Little Theatre, including veteran musical director Grub Cooper. The creative team has a strong female component with the introduction of Lesley-Ann Wanliss as the third female director in pantomime’s decades long history. With a story that uses TV as its source, Wanliss’s experience in film and theatre has proved an asset to the production process.

Maya Wilkinson, noted set designer, has created fantastical pieces that animate the show which will be in the hands of Stage Manager Kalia Ellis.

This year’s show, as stated by Wanliss, “recognises that culturally Jamaica is unique because of the amalgamation of Caribbean, African, and Indian cultures. The vibe of the show draws on elements of jonkannu, Carnival masquerade costumes, including puppetry and stilt walking, dancehall, buru, and nyabingi to create a spectacle that will capture audience’s attention for the limited holiday run at the Little Theatre from Boxing Day, December 26 to Sunday December 29, 2024.

Gloudon-Nelson said the pantomime will return in the new year, particularly for the school and church groups who still faithfully travel from all parts of the island to enjoy the tradition.

“But I would say, come enjoy the excitement of the season and catch Channel 876 in the holiday season,” she added.