Robinson Crusoe panto just what hospital doctors ordered at Royal London

Summer has been brightened up for children in hospital in London’s East End.

Youngsters have been treated to a big dose of sunshine by the Starlight Children’s Foundation pop-up pantomime at the Royal London in Whitechapel.

This year’s panto was Robinson Crusoe, the classic children’s story with audience interaction causing the young patients to laugh, cheer and sing along as the four actors performed for them and their families.

“Play can significantly help improve a child’s time in hospital,” play worker Natasha Luck explained.

“So we do all we can to put a smile on the faces of children and their siblings who visit.”

Starlight charity’s panto gave the youngsters a chance to forget their illness for a while and simply have fun. The actors’ performances distract poorly children from their illnesses, giving them the chance to shout “Look behind you!” from the safety of the hospital ward.

The charity also grants wishes for seriously-ill and terminally-ill children as well as providing entertainment in hospitals and hospices across Britain.

Robinson Crusoe was just what the hospital doctors ordered to cheer up their young patients.