REGARDING the letter about the prices charged for the York Theatre Royal pantomime this year (May 18), I have always wondered why the people of York will pay such inflated prices for their pantomime.

One should consider that York Theatre Royal is charging the same as many of the 'A' Theatres in England. Why? They have no large star fees to pay, the scenery is very low key, there are no special effects to pay for. It just seems like a bit of a rip off.

Instead of complaining then paying these prices, I would suggest people make the short trip to Bridlington to the lovely Spa Theatre. Twelve years ago we did this and were surprised to see a pantomime of a standard not seen for years in this area. Each year since, we have seen the Bridlington pantomime and it improves year after year.

Last year's production of Dick Whittington was the best we have seen so far. It was packed full of family fun, colourful costumes, spectacular scenery and best of all the principals have good singing voices and can act. With the exception of the comedy, everything that the York Theatre Royal pantomime lacks.

The best news of all is that the seat prices are about 50 per cent of those in York and concessions are available.

So please stop complaining about the Theatre Royal pantomime prices, the remedy is in your own hands.

Ian Brunton,

Kirkbyunderdale, York.

Updated: 10:47 Tuesday, May 21, 2002