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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