OUR HISTORY

The Habbit Factory achieved its greatest artistic success so far with this production. In previous years, only the Blue Tees performed in the pantomime project, but our goal was to provide more opportunities for children and young people. As a result, we opened up participation to our Junior and Senior company, resulting in a larger and more diverse cast and a truly inclusive pantomime.

Initially, we had planned for three performances, but ticket sales were so popular that all three sold out three weeks before the production. With financial support from Havering Changing, which aimed to support our accessibility goals, we were able to add another performance, which also sold out. We are proud to note that 35% of our audience had no prior connection to the charity and did not know anyone in the production, which helped to spread our message and raise our profile within the community.

This production was supported by Havering Changing.

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Starring our professional staff, Blue Tees and for the first time this year, as our ensemble, our children and young people from The Habbit Factory.

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Synopsis – “After 3 years off we are back with our annual pantomime. This year’s gigantic family pantomime is Jack and the Beanstalk.

Poor Dame Trott and her son Jack hardly have a bean to their name, and to make things worse the village is being terrorised by a wicked giant. Can Jack defeat the giant, win the heart of his one true love and solve their economic woes? Come and join us at the Myplace Centre this festive season to find out! Laugh at Silly Billy, Boo and Hiss at the evil Poison Ivy and of course, cheer on our hero Jack as he tries to rescue his sweetheart Jill from the nasty Giant’s castle in the clouds. This is the Panto you’ve all BEAN waiting for”

As the grip of the pandemic began to loosen, a sense of excitement filled the air as we eagerly prepared to return to the stage for in-person performances. With Hannah S on maternity leave, Kelly gracefully stepped into the role of choreographer, infusing our upcoming musical with her unique vision and creativity. The production itself carried a powerful message, urging us all to embrace a friendlier relationship with the environment and instilling a sense of responsibility within each of us.

This production marked a significant milestone, as over 40% of the cast stepped onto the stage for the very first time. It was an extraordinary opportunity to showcase our work to a fresh audience, while also reminding those who had witnessed previous Habbit Factory productions of the transformative power that lies within our practiser.

Synopsis – “Set in a nature reserve hotel and forest, Buddy the Badger goes on a mission to save the Woodland Inn by gathering animal friends throughout the forest. Humans are set on destroying everything to build a shopping centre. Can Buddy and his friends convince the humans of their wrong actions? Or is it too late to change their minds?

This inspiring musical has songs from well-known artists from different genres so there is something for everyone. You are guaranteed to laugh and cry throughout this original story made by/with/for Members of The Habbit Factory.”

For a remarkable span of two hours, our virtual gathering captivated the hearts of those who tuned in. Despite being physically apart, we sang cherished Christmas songs that echoed with love and nostalgia. We delighted in creating charming sketches that captured the essence of the holiday season, sharing laughter and joy across the digital landscape. And in a display of unity and resilience, we danced with exuberance and grace, transforming our living rooms into stages of celebration. The Facebook Live performance proved to be a tremendous success, transcending the limitations of distance, and bringing our community closer than ever before. The outpouring of support was truly remarkable, with over £500 raised and a staggering £1200 in generous donations. These contributions served as a testament to the enduring spirit of giving and the profound impact our collective efforts can have on those in need.

Synopsis – "The Habbit Factory's Virtual Holiday Extravaganza" is a heartwarming and innovative show that proves the power of creativity and community spirit, even in the face of a global pandemic. Despite the challenges presented by the ongoing health crisis, The Habbit Factory successfully celebrates its 17th Birthday in a unique and memorable way. Unable to gather in person, the members and Blue Tees of The Habbit Factory find a way to come together online and create a spectacular show through a series of emails, texts, and Zoom meetings. They demonstrate their unwavering dedication to their craft and the resilience of their creative community.”

The members of our adult company eagerly sought their next creative endeavour. Although they felt hesitant about crafting an entirely original production, their passion for storytelling led them to embark on a captivating adaptation of the beloved tale, "Pinocchio." Set in the present day, this reimagined rendition saw the wooden puppet transformed into a lovable robot, while the wise Jiminy Cricket assumed the form of Amazon Alexa. With enthusiasm abound, we unveiled this modern retelling to an audience of 120 eager spectators. However, unforeseen circumstances required our dedicated core team to step into various roles at the very last minute, illustrating their unwavering commitment and adaptability. This experience served as a valuable lesson, prompting us to refine our approach to casting for future productions within the adult company. Throughout the performance, the timeless tale of "Pinocchio" took on new life, intertwining technology, and humanity to create a truly engaging and thought-provoking experience. The resonance of the story in a contemporary context struck a chord with the audience, sparking reflection and fostering a connection to the underlying themes of self-discovery, loyalty, and the pursuit of dreams

Synopsis – “Join the Habbit Factory Adults group for their 3rd annual performance, "Pinocchio". Set in the present day, Pinocchio a robot is made by his father Geppetto and sent to school. On his way to school he meets the Fox and the Cat who send him on a wild adventure. Can he avoid bumping into the evil Stromboli? This is our adaptation on the classic story.”

With immense pride, we welcomed our cherished members, who, in turn, extended invitations to their friends and family, creating an inclusive and diverse audience that transcended any organisational boundaries. Together, we laughed, cheered, and shared in the sheer joy of live performance, fostering a sense of unity and connection that extended beyond the stage. As the shows unfolded, the infectious energy and palpable excitement reverberated throughout the venue, filling the hearts of both performers and spectators alike. The sold-out performances served as a testament to the enduring power of collaboration, passion, and the shared belief in the transformative impact of the arts. Through this extraordinary experience, we further solidified our bonds with the Myplace Centre, forging a partnership that would continue to nurture creativity, build community, and provide a platform for unforgettable moments. Together, we celebrated the spirit of togetherness, inclusivity, and the magic of the performing arts, leaving an indelible mark on all those who were fortunate enough to be part of this unforgettable journey.

Synopsis – “Jump on our magic carpet as we take you on a trip to Peking to see three magic wishes. Presented by the Blue Tees, Follow Aladdin, his brother Wishee Washee, and of course his mother Widow Twankey, on a adventure with an interesting love story, a genius genie, an evil sorcerer, a flying carpet and a lamp packed full of spectacular family entertainment. Be ready to boo and hiss the Evil Abanazar as he tries to take over the world”

Building upon our perfected practice of inclusivity, we embarked on a creative endeavour aimed at crafting a truly original production. Titled "History," the narrative unfolded within the confines of a school classroom, where students were tasked with writing essays about their favourite moments in history. Our vision was to present real-life stories in a fresh and unique manner, tailoring them to each character's personality, preferences, and knowledge on the subject. This approach resulted in a memorable scene featuring Henry VIII, cleverly set in the familiar context of the popular TV program "Take Me Out." The culmination of our efforts came to life through three remarkable performances, each one drawing a sell-out crowd. A total of 200 children and young people had the opportunity to take the stage, supported by a dedicated team of 28 volunteer Blue Tees. The Queens Theatre in Hornchurch served as the perfect backdrop for this grand production, further elevating the experience. Through "History," we not only provided a platform for our young performers to showcase their talent but also nurtured their individuality by incorporating their unique perspectives into the storytelling. The result was a tapestry of captivating narratives and memorable moments that left a lasting impact on both the participants and the audience.

Synopsis – “The Habbit Factory children's groups will be performing "History" as their yearly performance at the queens theatre. A class of 10 students write up about moments in history. Not all have been written down correctly... Fun for all the family.”

Following numerous discussions with our dedicated community, members, and families, we collectively decided to embark on an extraordinary venture—an enchanting fundraising pantomime. Our primary objective was to ensure inclusivity by setting the ticket prices as low as possible, enabling as many people as possible to experience the joy of a pantomime. After conducting a vote among our esteemed volunteer pool, we unanimously selected the timeless tale of Cinderella as our production of choice.

Embracing the beloved traditions of pantomime, we embarked on this remarkable journey. To our delight, all three performances were met with overwhelming support and quickly sold out to eager audiences comprising members, families, and individuals connected to the talented cast. The tremendous success of these shows resulted in a remarkable £1000 raised, serving as a testament to the community's generosity and belief in our cause.

Little did we anticipate the tremendous popularity and demand that followed. Audiences clamoured for more, igniting a spark within our hearts and planting the seed for the monumental project it has since become. This humble beginning has grown into an expansive and awe-inspiring endeavour, shaping the incredible work we continue to undertake today.

Not only would this mark the largest audience our members had ever performed in front of, but it also marked our inaugural foray into a high-tech theatrical space, complete with cutting-edge equipment like radio microphones, moving flies, intricate sets, and professional lighting. Nestled in the heart of the community, this theatre proved to be the perfect setting for our grand debut. Dubbed "Magic of the Musicals," our co-created masterpiece took the audience on a captivating journey through various musicals and styles, all woven together by a cohesive storyline. As we discussed the concept of this extraordinary production, our members devised a brilliant idea to showcase the progression throughout the performance, adding depth and resonance to the experience. And as the final curtain fell on the last show, every individual involved in the process knew they had been part of something truly extraordinary.

With a staggering cast of over 100 characters, the undertaking was no small feat. Putting on two shows on separate days with completely different ensembles presented its own set of challenges. The first performance featured 86 cast members, while the second boasted 87. Undoubtedly, this was the most monumental event ever undertaken by The Habbit Factory, serving as a springboard into annual productions at the esteemed theatre. This remarkable milestone not only paved the way for future endeavours but also left an indelible mark on everyone involved, forever cherishing the memories of being part of something truly extraordinary.

Driven by their collective enthusiasm, members, Blue Tees, and staff united to craft a captivating narrative, fusing together beloved Disney films of their choice. The result was a remarkable show where Mickey and his friends gathered to revel in the joyous spirit of Christmas. However, their merriment was abruptly disrupted upon discovering that the cherished star atop their tree had mysteriously vanished. In a stroke of fortuitous timing, Walt Disney himself made a timely appearance, leading the gang on a thrilling adventure to retrieve the missing star. Little did they know, the star's fragments were scattered across the globe, hidden within the realms of various iconic films.

Prior to the disruptive arrival of the pandemic, our dedicated group embarked on a story unlike any other - the collaborative task of writing the script for our anticipated production, "Hallow's Eve". Breaking away from our customary practices, we ventured into uncharted territory, pooling members collective imaginations and talents to craft a captivating narrative that would enchant audiences.

Synopsis – “Follow a business woman and her 'relaxed' husband, a ditzy blonde and an old war veteran as they exchange stories both real and mysterious whilst broken down on the M25. After being invited on a bus journey this perilous trip may cause more mystery than relaxation, as the promise of a free event quickly takes a turn for the worse. Are their stories and their pasts as unconnected as they believe?

Co-Created and written by the Habbit Factory's adult group.

Synopsis – “Join The Habbit Factory's adult group's performance of 'Hallows Eve, supported by the Blue Tees. Co-Created and written by the group in 2019 and cancellations in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, it has been over 3 years since their last performance, the very popular remake of the Disney classic 'Pinocchio'. Join us at the Myplace Centre the Halloween as they tell ghost stories”

Amidst the onset of the second lockdown, determined to uplift spirits and reignite creativity, we resolved to organise yet another remarkable Facebook Live performance, offering our community a much-needed outlet for expression and a platform to showcase our artistic skills. As the digital curtains opened, nearly 200 eager viewers gathered to witness the magic unfold. Despite the physical distance that separated us, the spirit of unity prevailed as 24 passionate members, Blue Tees, and staff joined forces virtually to present this awe-inspiring production.

The overwhelming response and the sheer joy reflected in the hearts of those who watched served as a testament to the impact of our virtual production. We had achieved our goal of providing solace, inspiration, and a much-needed escape for our community during the difficult days of lockdown.

Synopsis – “Join us for an evening of fun as we celebrate our 17th Birthday in style. We will not let the current situation prevent us from bringing our community together, so for one night only, we present to you our birthday show live from our living room. This will include performances from members and Blue T's along with a quiz, multiple competitions and a virtual DJ to finish off the evening. What more could you want on a Friday evening? Grab that bottle of bubbly (Lemonade for the little ones) sit back, relax and watch the madness unfold.”

As the curtains rose, our cast took centre stage, exuding a newfound confidence and professionalism that was palpable. The energy in the theatre was electric as laughter, applause, and a sense of wonder filled the air. With each scene and each interaction, our performers left an indelible mark on the hearts of the audience, showcasing their incredible talent and dedication. The rave reviews that followed served as a testament to our commitment to excellence and the unwavering support of our community. We had succeeded in creating a pantomime that surpassed all expectations, leaving a lasting impression on both young and old alike. With every passing year, we continued to push the boundaries of creativity and raise the bar for our productions. The success of this pantomime fuelled our passion and determination to further excel, setting the stage for future endeavours that would continue to delight and inspire audiences for years to come.

Synopsis – “Mirror Mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all? Come and join us for the fairest pantomime of them all this festive season with the magical fairy tale Snow White. After the Magic Mirror declares Snow White to be the fairest in all the land the Evil Queen is sent into a jealous rage. Will her friends be able to save Snow White from the Queen’s rage and will they all be able to live happily ever after? Once again The Blue Tees will have all the ingredients for a perfect family panto, with a dastardly villain, a hapless comic and a hilarious panto dame, as well as, fabulous songs, dances and bags of slapstick fun!”

During the Christmas break in 2018, inspiration struck one of our team members as they watched the timeless classic, "The Wizard of Oz." Captivated by the iconic tale, they conceived the idea of an epilogue that would explore the events that unfolded after Dorothy's journey through the enchanted land. With the popular musical "Wicked" captivating theatre audiences as a prologue, the time was ripe to delve into the untold story. Embracing this newfound vision, we embarked on a grand adventure, bringing together a remarkable ensemble of 170 children and young people, supported by a dedicated team of 32 Blue Tees.  Adding an extra touch of excitement to our production, serendipity smiled upon us when a generous volunteer donated a staircase, previously seen on "The Voice UK." The generosity did not end there, as our volunteer took to social media and tweeted none other than Will.i.am himself. Moved by our story, the renowned artist arranged for the staircase to be delivered to us via courier, enhancing the spectacle of our performance. The generosity and support of our volunteers and the fortuitous connection with Will.i.am served as a testament to the power of community and the remarkable impact that can be achieved when dreams align.

Synopsis – “Dorothy lands back in Oz and loses her red ruby slippers once again. Seemingly taken by the evil witches sister, she teams up with the Wizard to get them back. Can she get them back to return to Kansas or does the Wizard have a few secrets up his sleeve?

In response to the heartfelt requests of parents and individuals reaching the age of 18 who wished to continue their involvement with The Habbit Factory, we heeded their call and proudly launched our adult company. Embracing the spirit of our beloved children's company, we sought to create a fitting debut that paid homage to our beginnings. With great enthusiasm, we curated a captivating variety show that artfully blended cherished sketches from our 2012 performance with fresh, co-created additions crafted in collaboration with our adult company. This eclectic mix of familiar and new sketches formed the foundation of an extraordinary production that would delight audiences and showcase the immense talent of our adult members.

By revisiting treasured moments from our past, we honoured the rich history of The Habbit Factory, while also embracing the creative energy and fresh perspectives brought forth by our adult company. This harmonious collaboration resulted in a truly unique and unforgettable experience for both performers and spectators alike. As the curtains rose on this exceptional variety show, the collective laughter, applause, and joyous spirit filled the air, serving as a testament to the enduring magic of The Habbit Factory. Our adult company, now an integral part of our extended family, embarked on a new chapter, continuing to nurture creativity, camaraderie, and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of the performing arts. They performed in front of 123 people to a resounding success. 90% of the cast, performing for the very first time.

Upon receiving glowing recommendations from the local community, an exciting opportunity arose when the Mayor of Havering personally reached out to us. Tasked with leading the charge, we were entrusted with creating Havering's entry for London's esteemed New Year's Day parade. Brimming with enthusiasm, our dedicated members, volunteers, and staff embarked on a remarkable journey. Braving the early morning hours, our spirited ensemble boarded a bus bound for London, ready to showcase their talents and spread joy throughout the city. Dressed in vibrant costumes, they joyfully danced their way along the parade route, weaving through famous landmarks that defined the captivating backdrop of this grand event. Hours turned into moments as they wove a tapestry of performance and celebration, captivating the hearts of onlookers and passers-by. The culmination of this magnificent parade brought our talented troupe before the watchful eyes of both royalty and an astounding television audience of over 100 million viewers. With the eyes of the nation and the world upon them, our performers poured their hearts and souls into a mesmerizing finale, leaving an indelible mark on the grand stage. This incredible experience, spanning four hours of exhilarating performance, showcased the dedication and passion of our members, volunteers, and staff. As they danced, laughed, and delighted audiences along the parade route, they embodied the spirit and vibrancy of Havering. It was a moment of pride, unity, and celebration that will forever be etched in their memories and in the hearts of those who witnessed their awe-inspiring display.

Ignited by the collective passion for fairytales among our members and volunteers, we embarked on a remarkable journey of co-creating a musical production that brought together a multitude of beloved fairytale characters. Led by a delightful pantomime Dame, we affectionately titled the production "Twice upon a Time." Drawing inspiration from heartfelt conversations with our young people, we set out to craft a unique script that deviated from the common "cut and paste" approach seen in other productions. Our musical not only embraced the enchantment of fairytales but also infused it with the spirit of traditional pantomimes, incorporating elements of comedy and humor. However, we dared to challenge the conventional notion of "good versus evil." By shedding light on the stories of traditional "bad guys," we unveiled the complexity of their characters, revealing that there are two sides to every tale. This fresh perspective resonated deeply with the audience, and one attendee even took to social media, tweeting, "People could learn a lot from this small charity with a big heart." Through our innovative and heartfelt approach, we succeeded in delivering a production that captivated audiences, while also imparting valuable life lessons. Our small charity, driven by boundless passion and compassion, demonstrated that even the most familiar stories can be reimagined with depth and nuance, leaving a lasting impact on all who experienced the magic of "Twice upon a Time." Synopsis – “Created by the Blue Tees using the minds of our members we have a pantomime with a twist. Good Vs Evil in the fairytale world. Who will live happily ever after?”

In November 2014, a remarkable milestone was reached as approximately 170 members from our three hubs joined forces to present a captivating and original co-created musical titled "Pop of Ages," orchestrated by the talented Blue Tees. The stage was set at the esteemed Myplace Centre in Harold Hill, where all three performances were met with overwhelming success, drawing in a sold-out crowd of 200 attendees each.

At the heart of the story was the endearing character of 'Grandpa,' entrusted with the care of his two grandchildren. Their chance discovery of a treasure chest, brimming with artifacts from Grandpa's past, ignited a flood of nostalgic memories as the children unearthed each item and photograph. This heartwarming journey triggered one of the most memorable sketches, known as 'Bill and Ben.'

While our previous shows had graced the halls of Myplace and local school venues, this moment marked a significant leap forward, as we sought a larger and more fitting stage.

The inaugural performance organised by the new management was held at Abbs Cross Academy, captivating an audience comprising 40 parents, guardians, and friends. The ensemble showcased a delightful medley of dances, songs, and engaging comedy routines, all ingeniously crafted by the talented group members. To encourage volunteerism, our dedicated Blue Tees actively participated in several skits, embodying our commitment to inclusivity and providing a valuable learning experience for our youthful team. The awe-inspiring spectacle featured a total of 24 children and young performers, accompanied by five Blue Tees