I see your point, and no two things are not 'hysteria' in and of themselves but it was three, combine it with the rumours/ speculation that follows on social media etc and it's soon swelled. Well those are just three examples that have been around the media from people with a following of some level that I know of - then we have the persistent uncertainty this creates, because if it was a simple case of just not knowing that would be find but clearing up the rumors can help, and also shows that the producers are 'touching base' with all of the potential audience members, and then the cast/ crew that often rely on it for income at that time of year. Someone I know is in a position where the biggest income year on year is from Panto, and has heard little to nothing from producers, and feels hearing something at least will help to even know they are there and aware of people in less fortunate situations than them who probably have good ideas at this point. It also clarifies things because of the source it comes from - hearing speculation is often why people in various official positions come out and make statements - when there are rumors causing confusion, there's even been talk of people supposedly hearing this and that from the producers themselves, and one succinct statement can help put these to bed. Because we all see the 'there will be no season etc' which can damage faith and hearing a producer say there's still hope, will mean no one can really say otherwise. So, no, it may well be final decisions haven't been made, but they will most certainly know the probability of the situation, and what their thoughts are with where we will be come Christmas, because as we all know it takes months of planning - it can't just be switch the lights on in October and have full panto houses by December.