Oh Yes It Was! Australian Ad Industry Pantomime a Hit With Locals

On December 5th, the Seymour Centre at Chippendale played host to the first-ever Australian advertising industry pantomime, raising money for children’s charities.

All profits from the production went towards Unlimited’s MOOD Tea initiatives, which aim to help young people better manage their mental health.

Somewhat tenuously based on Aladdin, the plot of the pantomime followed Addy Lala (played by LBB’s own Casey Martin), a keen initiate to the industry with big ideas, and even bigger dreams.

Penned by IAB Australia CEO Gai Le Roy, the panto was performed by a rag-tag team of industry thespians, including MFA chair Peter Horgan of OMG, Aimee Buchanan of GroupM, and Ricky Chanana of JustEggs to name a few.

Addy arrives wide-eyed and inspired on her first day at a new agency, only to be left disheartened after experiencing the inner workings of the industry.

She eventually encounters Mickey Cabana (Ricky Chanana), who takes her under his wing and shows Addy what the industry has to offer.

“Looking for someone to help you navigate these fantastic halls of media advertising?” Mickey asks Addy at one stage.

“Look no further. I'm humble, and I'm a shy chap who has stumbled his way into this marketplace to find my path, and I'm more than happy to share my path with you.” 

Gai’s comedic stylings were a big hit with all present, with the crowd overlooking the traditional pantomime piecemeal plot, and celebrating the occasion alongside the local industry.

It is unclear as to whether the event will be revived in 2024, but the success of the inaugural industry pantomime certainly made the case for an annual event.