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This year's pantomimes have not been announced here yet. Check back soon, or tell us about one.
Panto news
- He’s Behind You! serves up the full cast for their big gay adult panto Cinderella: Buttons Undone! 17 Oct
- Catford's Dick Whittington Panto Available with Official London Theatre 5 Nov
- Sleeping Beauty at the Jason Sutton Theatre, Brighton — Review 22 Dec
- Potted Panto at Wilton's Music Hall — Review 10 Dec
Panto for first-timers
What is a pantomime?
A British family theatre tradition, usually staged from late November to January. It retells a fairy tale such as Cinderella, Aladdin or Jack and the Beanstalk with songs, slapstick, audience shouting, a dame in outrageous costumes and a villain you are meant to boo.
What age is panto suitable for?
Most pantomimes suit children from about 3, but check each show's age guidance and running time. Pantos usually run about two hours with an interval. Younger children can find the loud noises and villain tiring, so sit near an aisle.
When should I book panto tickets?
Book early. Weekend and Christmas-week performances sell out first, and the best prices are in the weeks before the run opens. Weekday matinees in early December are usually cheapest and quietest.
Are there relaxed or accessible pantomimes?
Many theatres run relaxed, captioned, audio-described or BSL-interpreted performances. Check the theatre guide for accessibility details and book those performances direct with the box office.
Is it okay to shout and sing along?
Yes. Boo the villain, warn the hero that the ghost is "behind you" and join the song sheet. It is the point of the evening.
Panto words explained
- Pantomime dame
- The comic older woman of a pantomime, played by a man in outrageous costumes. She is the heart of the show, trades jokes with the audience and gets the biggest laughs.
- Principal boy
- The male hero of a pantomime, traditionally played by a young woman in tights. Today the part is often played by a man, but the name has stuck.
- "Behind you!"
- The best-known panto call. A character fails to notice a ghost, villain or monster creeping up, and the audience shouts the warning, usually followed by "Oh no it isn't!" "Oh yes it is!".
- Slosh scene
- A messy comic set piece in a pantomime where the cast throw foam, water or custard pies, often while trying to decorate, bake or clean something.
- Panto villain
- The booed baddie of a pantomime, who enters from stage left to a chorus of boos and tries to ruin the hero. Boo and hiss back; it is expected.
- Relaxed performance
- A show adapted for people who may find a standard performance difficult, such as autistic people or those with sensory needs. Lights and sound are softened and you can move around or leave and return freely.