’Tis the season for dad jokes and glitter as Devon’s theatres are taken over by bizarre costumes and comical baddies. What is Christmas without your gran taking you to a panto? It’s boring, that’s what. So gather all the kids in your family and head on down to your local production and indulge in some Christmas magic.
Jack and the Beanstalk | Northcott Theatre | Exeter | December 3rd – January 6th
Dame Dotty Trott is the star of this show — with a catalogue of puns and extravagant costumes to boot, Steve Bennett shines on as Northcott’s favourite Dame. Written and directed by Bennett, it’s the classic tale that follows the age-old storyline of selling a cow in exchange for magic beans. And it wouldn’t be a modern day panto if their musical numbers weren’t without some contemporary hits based on convenient pretexts (Jack sings Miley Cyrus’ ‘The Climb’ when ascending the beanstalk…). We also love the fact that Jack is played by Jessie May!
Get tickets here. We’ve had a chance to see this one already, which means we’re the most excited about it!
Aladdin | Plymouth Athenaeum | Plymouth | December 13th – January 6th
Think you know the story of the street urchin and his magical adventures? La Navet Bete return to the city for a unique performance of Aladdin, described as ‘bonkers, hilarious and surprising’. Don’t leave it too late to get your tickets.
Dick Whittington | Theatre Royal | Plymouth | December 14th – January 12th
Eastenders’ Samantha Womack and John Partridge are joined by Andy Ford and Nigel Ellacott in this panto classic. Follow Dick Whittington as he goes on the hunt for fame and happiness on his journey to become the Lord Mayor of London. With magical fairies and rodent kings, it’s set to be a festive evening— find your tickets here.
Peter Pan | Queen’s Theatre | Barnstaple | December 14th – January 5th
‘Nasty Nick’ aka John Altman is starring as Captain Hook in this action-filled performance of Peter Pan and his battle with the pirate baddie. Definitely a story for the whole family this Christmas as it reminds us to never grow up!
Get your tickets here.
Sleeping Beauty | Princess Theatre | Torquay | December 14th – January 19th
This year Torquay has bagged Melinda Messenger to play Fairy Sparkle in a story where a girl is cursed to slumber forever until she is awoken by true love’s kiss. Local star Luke Friend joins as Prince Valentine and Victoria Goulding as the Princess, so it’s set to be a magical and fun-filled panto. Also, you can wear your pyjamas every Friday — the singing and dancing will probably wake you up.
Find tickets here.