Principal boy

Vesta Tilley as a principal boy
Actress Nan Hearne as Jack in the pantomime The House That Jack Built

In pantomime, a principal boy role is the young male protagonist of the play, traditionally played by a young actress in boy's clothes.

The tradition grew out of laws restricting the use of child actors in London theatre, and the responsibility carried by such lead roles. A Breeches role was also a rare opportunity for an early 20th century actress to wear a costume revealing the legs covered only in tights, potentially increasing the size of the audience.[1] The practice of having a female play the principal boy has become less common,[2] as further outlets are sought for the talents of young male popular stars and actors.

Although not written as a pantomime, Peter Pan, or The Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up is often produced as one with the tradition of a female principal boy continuing.

List of notable Principal Boys

See also

References

  1. anon (2005). "History of British Pantomime". Limelight Scripts. Retrieved 18 May 2011.
  2. Copping, Jaspar (1 December 2013). "Curtain falls on traditional panto - oh yes it does!". The Telegraph. Retrieved 8 September 2015.


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