Pantomime is a uniquely British theatrical tradition, and every winter it draws millions of families into theatres up and down the country. From late November through to mid-January, venues of every size stage colourful, noisy, gloriously silly productions of classic fairy tales. If you have never been to a panto, or you are looking to make it a regular family tradition, this guide covers everything you need to know about pantomime season in the UK.
What is pantomime?
Pantomime, or panto, is a form of musical comedy theatre based on well-known fairy tales and folk stories. Titles like Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, Aladdin, Sleeping Beauty, Dick Whittington, and Snow White appear year after year, each given a fresh twist with topical jokes, pop music, slapstick comedy, and audience participation.
Key conventions include the pantomime dame (a male actor playing a comic female role), the principal boy (traditionally played by a woman), a villain the audience boos and hisses at, and the famous call-and-response routines. "He's behind you!" and "Oh yes it is!" are as much a part of Christmas as mince pies.
Where to see pantomime across the UK
Panto happens everywhere. Major professional productions run at large theatres in every city, while community halls, village theatres, and school stages host amateur performances that are often just as entertaining. Here are some of the venues known for outstanding pantomime productions:
Professional pantomimes
- Birmingham Hippodrome stages one of the biggest and most spectacular pantos in the country each year, regularly featuring television celebrities
- Theatre Royal, Nottingham has a long tradition of high-quality panto with impressive sets and special effects
- New Wimbledon Theatre in London is one of the capital's premier panto venues, produced by Qdos Entertainment
- Bristol Hippodrome runs lavish productions that draw audiences from across the South West
- Edinburgh King's Theatre hosts Scotland's biggest annual panto, a beloved city tradition
- Mayflower Theatre, Southampton produces large-scale pantos with strong casts and production values
- Alhambra Theatre, Bradford is another heavyweight panto venue, consistently selling out its run
Smaller and amateur pantomimes
Do not overlook smaller venues and amateur dramatic societies. Towns across the UK have thriving am-dram groups that pour enormous energy and creativity into their annual panto. These productions often have a wonderful community atmosphere, with audiences who know the performers personally. Ticket prices are typically very affordable, often under £15 for adults.
When to book pantomime tickets
The biggest professional pantos announce their shows and open booking as early as spring, sometimes even the previous winter. Popular dates sell out months in advance, particularly weekend matinees and performances between Christmas and New Year. If you want the best seat choice and the date you prefer, book as early as you can.
Weekday matinees during the school holidays tend to be slightly easier to get. Some theatres offer relaxed performances designed for families with children who have additional needs, and these are usually listed separately in the schedule.
What to expect at a pantomime
Panto is not a sit-quietly-and-watch experience. The audience is expected to join in, shouting warnings to the hero, booing the villain, and singing along with the musical numbers. Children love the interactivity, and adults enjoy the layers of humour written specifically for them. Many pantos include gentle innuendo that sails over young heads but keeps parents entertained.
Performances typically last around two hours including an interval. Sweet and ice cream sellers usually circulate during the interval, and many theatres sell panto merchandise. Some venues offer meet-and-greet opportunities with the cast after the show.
Pantomime for young children
Most pantomimes are suitable for children aged three and above, though some theatres recommend age five and up for longer or louder productions. If your child is very young or may be unsettled by loud bangs, flashing lights, or the villain's entrance, check with the box office about the show's content. Relaxed performances reduce these elements and create a more comfortable environment.
For more family theatre ideas throughout the year, have a look at our guide to the best children's theatre shows in the UK.
Making a tradition of pantomime
Many families make panto an annual tradition, returning to the same theatre each December. It is a lovely way to mark the start of the festive season, and children who grow up going to panto often develop a lifelong love of theatre. If you are new to the tradition, this winter is the perfect time to start.
Looking for more live events to fill your calendar? Browse the Tickts homepage for events near you, or explore our guide to West End shows in London for year-round theatre inspiration.
Pantomime schedules vary by venue and year. Check your local theatre's website for dates, casting announcements, and ticket availability.
