Principal boy meaning

Principal boy is a character in traditional British pantomime played by a young woman.


Principal boy definitions

Word backwards lapicnirp yob
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division prin-ci-pal boy
Plural The plural of the word "principal boy" is "principal boys."
Total letters 12
Vogais (3) i,a,o
Consonants (7) p,r,n,c,l,b,y

When it comes to traditional British pantomimes, the principal boy is a beloved character that typically takes on the role of the leading male protagonist. This character is traditionally portrayed by a young female actress, adding a unique twist to the performance. The principal boy is known for being brave, adventurous, and often the romantic interest of the leading lady.

The Role of the Principal Boy

One of the key aspects of the principal boy character is their strong and independent nature. They are often depicted as courageous and daring individuals who are not afraid to take risks or stand up for what they believe in. The principal boy is typically the hero of the story, leading the charge against the villain and saving the day.

Theatrical Traditions

The tradition of casting a female actress as the principal boy dates back to the 19th century when women were not allowed to perform on stage. This tradition has continued to this day, with many actresses relishing the opportunity to take on this iconic role. The principal boy is often dressed in extravagant costumes, with plenty of glitter and sequins to add to the spectacle of the performance.

Characteristics of the Principal Boy

In addition to being brave and daring, the principal boy is also known for their quick wit and charm. They are able to captivate audiences with their charisma and stage presence, making them a memorable and endearing character. The principal boy often has a strong sense of justice and fairness, fighting for what is right and valiantly facing any challenges that come their way.

Overall, the principal boy is a timeless character in the world of pantomime, bringing a sense of adventure and excitement to the stage. Their portrayal by a female actress adds an extra layer of intrigue and playfulness to the performance, making them a beloved figure in traditional British theatre.


Principal boy Examples

  1. The principal boy in the school play did a fantastic job portraying the lead character.
  2. In traditional British pantomime, the principal boy is often played by a female actor.
  3. The director selected a talented actor to play the principal boy in the upcoming production.
  4. The principal boy's costume was adorned with glitter and feathers for the grand finale.
  5. The young actor was thrilled to be cast as the principal boy in his first major production.
  6. The audience cheered as the principal boy took center stage for the final bow.
  7. Playing the principal boy requires a great deal of energy and enthusiasm.
  8. The principal boy's solo dance number received a standing ovation from the crowd.
  9. The principal boy's performance was so captivating that it brought tears to many eyes in the audience.
  10. The principal boy's charming smile lit up the stage as he delivered his lines with confidence.


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  • Updated 21/06/2024 - 16:40:12