The Best Christmas Shows and Pantos of 2016
If you’re planning a trip to the theatre this Christmas, look no further: this guide to the country’s best plays and pantomimes will sort you out before you can say “it’s behind you…”
A Christmas Carol, Arts Theatre, London
After a sell-out season last year, Simon Callow returns to the Arts with his much-admired one-man rendition of Dickens’s heart-warming, tear-stirring tale of Christmases past, present and future and the ghostly redemption of old Scrooge.
Until Jan 7: Online Tickets; 020 7836 8463
The Snowman, Peacock Theatre, London
Welcome return for Bill Alexander’s endlessly profitable wordless staging of the Raymond Briggs’s modern classic – now in its 19th year; Howard Blake’s timeless score, dancing penguins and snowmen, and enough flying harness-work to make even jaded adults go “aah”.
Until Jan 6: Online Tickets; 0844 412 4322
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, The Lowry, Manchester
One of the world’s favourite musicals, Chitty Chitty, Bang Bang will have audiences of all ages flying high with its mixture of madness, intrigue and exuberance. Starring Jason Manford as Caractacus Potts, Michelle Collins as Baroness Bomburst and Phill Jupitus as Lord Scrumptious/Baron Bomburst.
Until 15 Jan: Online Tickets; 0843 208 6000
Aladdin, Opera House, Manchester
If you’re looking for magical family fun this Christmas, your wish is our command! With Genies by the lamp-load, belly-busting comedy, chart-topping songs, bags of family fun, audience, participation, pantoland’s biggest, boo-able baddie &, just maybe, a real flying carpet – the pantomime dreams are made of!
Until 8 Jan: Online Tickets; 0844 871 3018
Cinderella, Octagon Theatre, Bolton
It’s got all the traditional elements for a fabulous festive treat – a feisty girl who dreams of dressing up and dancing, a wicked stepmother, mean older sisters, and a slightly geeky Prince – but this Cinderella has one big difference. The rats are in charge.
Until 14 Jan: Online Tickets; 01204 520661
Peter Pan, Stockport Plaza, Stockport
It’s never too early to Hook your tickets for the North West’s premier family pantomime PETER PAN, the swashbuckling treat that everyone will enjoy! With amazingly affordable prices, sumptuous sets and a brilliant cast due to be announced, this is the one festive treat for all ages to enjoy!
Until 8 Jan: Online Tickets; 0161 477 7779
We hope you find something for your whole family to enjoy!