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It's Showtime! Pantomimes, Christmas and Winter Theatre For Families in Devon 2023
Its Showtime for Christmas 2023
Theatres across Devon are marking the festive season with a great selection of pantomimes, musicals and other shows this winter, all suitable for families. See our guide to stage shows that you can see this Christmas in Devon.
(Updated 24/10/2023)
18th December 2023 to 7th January 2024
Christmas Circus – Born To Sleigh
Marvel at gravity-defying aerialists, breathtaking acrobatics & spectacles no words can do justice!
With laughter, thrills, & more than a touch of holiday cheer, “Born to Sleigh!” is more Christmassy than Father Christmas’s lucky Christmas underpants! So let’s banish those winter blues & make some Christmas dreams come true! Gather up your loved ones and make memories that’ll last a lifetime this Christmas at Greendale Farm Shop. We just can’t wait!
Dates from 9th December 2023
Penguin and Bear
Penguin and Bear are the best of friends as their pens are side by side in the zoo. Until one day they are released back into their natural habitats - poles apart - in the North and the South Pole. Join this heart-warming adventure, as the two friends discover they cannot live apart from one another and make the journey across the world to be reunited.
Enjoy delightful storytelling with magical puppets, characters, music and much more!
SUITABLE FOR: Under 8 years and their big people (Babes in arms sat on parent/carers lap - FREE)
Dates from 17th December 2023
Igloo
Peeps has crash landed in the Arctic where he discovers Piccolo’s enchanting home, the Igloo. Join Peeps and Piccolo in this magical and playful tale full of lost stories of Dragons, Witches, Trolls and most of all friendship.
Enjoy delightful storytelling with magical puppets, characters, music and much more!
RECOMMENDED FOR: all the family 6 year+.
25th November to 31st December 2023
Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas
https://theatreroyal.com/whats-on/father-christmas/
Production of the classic Raymond Briggs story with relaxed, captioned, audio described and BSL interpreted performances as well as Touch Tours on selected dates
Join Santa as he awakes from a dream of sun, sea and sand only to find it is the busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve.
Watch as he prepares for his Christmas deliveries, feeds his reindeer and finally takes flight into the snowy night.
Recommended for ages 3 to 7 years.
- Relaxed Performance (BSL Interpreted and Audio Described) – Tue 05 Dec, 1.15pm
- Captioned Performance – Sat 09 Dec, 4.30pm
- Relaxed Performance – Sun 10 Dec, 11.00am
- Audio Described Performance – Sat 16 Dec, 11.00am
- Touch Tour – Sat 16 Dec, 10.00am
- BSL Interpreted Performance – Sat 16 Dec, 4.30pm.
15th December to 13th January 2023
Goldilocks and The Three Bears
https://theatreroyal.com/whats-on/goldilocks-and-the-three-bears/
Enter a world of wonder at Plymouth’s home of pantomime, as the Strictly sensational Brendan Cole, Double Olympic Champion Dame Kelly Holmes and Coronation Street star Alexandra Mardell join the circus in the magical Goldilocks and the Three Bears, coming to Theatre Royal Plymouth this Christmas.
Returning to his Plymouth roots, West End star Samuel Holmes joins the cast, alongside comedy ventriloquist Steve Hewlett, and renowned TV and stage comedian Adam C Booth.
This festive extravaganza is packed with riotous comedy, extraordinary special effects and hair-raising stunts!
Goldilocks’ circus is under threat from an evil rival circus owner and, with the help of their madcap circus friends, they’re battling to rescue their Big Top from ruin. Will they succeed? All seems lost, until three brilliant bears join the gang…
- Audio Described – Thu 28 Dec 2023, 7pm & Thu 04 Jan 2024, 2.30pm
- Captioned – Fri 29 Dec 2023, 2.30pm & Fri 05 Jan 2024, 7pm
- BSL Interpreted – Fri 29 Dec 2023, 7pm. Interpreted by Daryl McMullan, Provided by Complete Communication LTD
- Relaxed performance – Thu 11 Jan 2024, 12.30pm (Audio Described & BSL)
17th January to 11th February 2024.jpg)
Aladdin
https://theatreroyal.com/whats-on/disneyaladdin/
One lamp, three wishes and infinite possibilities… Disney’s spectacular Broadway and West End musical ALADDIN comes to Theatre Royal Plymouth in January 2024!
Escape to a whole new world and experience this extraordinary theatrical event already seen by over 14 million people worldwide.
Featuring the iconic music by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Tim Rice – this exuberant production is filled with unforgettable magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle!
- Captioned Performance – Thu 01 Feb 2024, 7pm
- BSL Interpreted Performance– Fri 02 Feb 2024, 7pm (Interpreted by Daryl McMullan – Provided by Complete Communication – will be positioned downstage right)
- Audio-Described Performance – Sat 03 Feb 2024, 2pm.
- Touch Tour – Sat 03 Feb 2024, 12pm.
- Relaxed Performance (with BSL and Audio Description) – Thu 8th Feb, 6pm
www.plymouththeatrecompany.com/
29th November 2023
Elf The Musical
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/plymouth/the-devonport-playhouse/elf-the-musical/e-dbagka
Buddy, a young orphan mistakenly crawls into Santa's bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa's permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh reality that his father is on the naughty list, and his step-brother doesn't even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This modern day holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear.
www.plymouthpavilions.com
10th December 2023
Cirque: The Greatest Show
Escape the ordinary and enter the world of the extraordinary!
It's time to step into the light. Escape for a night like no other, where you will be taken into a world where the very best of musical theatre showstoppers meets jaw-dropping circus spectacular. A world that explodes into colour as everyone’s favourite West End and Broadway hits combine with breath-taking, amazing performances, incredible contortionists, and thrilling feats of agility and flair.
It’s the brand-new variety spectacular everyone is talking about for 2023. . . welcome to Cirque: the award-winning, smash-hit sensation that is fun for all the family. Let the music lift you on a truly wondrous journey bursting with kaleidoscopic colour. Stars of the West End combine with incredible circus performers as the biggest hits from your favourite theatre shows are brought to the stage in unique, spellbinding style.
An all-star cast performing the big, big numbers from your favourite shows are joined by mesmerising circus stars – making for an enchanting production that is charming and astonishing in equal measure. Enter the extraordinary world of Cirque. Roll up, roll up and book your seats now for an unforgettable night out - truly like no other.
www.westpointexeter.co.uk
23rd to 26th November 2023
Disney On Ice
https://westpointexeter.co.uk/whats-on/disney-on-ice/
Chart a course through the night sky to Disney On Ice , where every story starts with a wish! Celebrate with Mickey, Minnie, and their Disney friends while reliving the adventures of your favourite Disney stories at Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder
The magic of Disney is closer than ever before when Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder at Westpoint Exeter this Christmas.
18th to 20th December 2023
Elf the Musical!
https://westpointexeter.co.uk/whats-on/elf-the-musical/
ELF, the hit Hollywood blockbuster movie has been supersized into a live arena spectacular, and we are delighted that they are bringing the show to Westpoint just in time for Christmas!
Featuring a massive stage and amazing film backdrops on a huge LED screen plus a mobile stage that travels the auditorium, everyone gets a close-up view of the action.
It’s an interactive show – great for all ages – Santa’s flying sleigh, audience snowball fight, an indoor snowstorm, a giant candy cane journey from the North Pole, aerial cirque stars and giant tv screens . It’s a festive spectacle to get the whole family into the spirit of the season!
The story is hilariously recreated by a large cast of performers into the biggest live Christmas show in the UK. The festive spectacular will feature West End star Steven Serlin, stepping into the big floppy shoes of Will Ferrell to play Buddy the Elf.
Princess Theatre Torquay
www.atgtickets.com/venues/princess-theatre-torquay
9th to 31st December 2023
Beauty and the Beast
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/beauty-and-the-beast/princess-theatre-torquay/
Jordan Productions will be presenting the classic ‘tale as old as time’, Beauty and the Beast, in true pantomime style, with live music, stunning sets, slick choreography, sensational costumes and of course, plenty of audience participation and panto fun.
The cast will include Sue Holderness as Malevolent, Katy Ashworth as Fairy Formidable,Michael Neilson as Dame Derriere, Kevin James as Potty Pierre, Hannah Everest as Belle, and Benjamin Purkiss as Prince/Beast.
The Princess Theatre's seasonal spectacular promises to end 2023 with magic, music and laughter like you’ve never seen before. A baddie wanting boos, goodies with some gags, a heroine in hot water... But what has happened to the handsome prince? Watch this spectacular adventure as Dame Dotty and son, Potty Pierre, cause chaos at the chateau.
14th January 2024
Nerubashenko Ballet Presents The Nutcracker
Alive orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s splendid score adds the finishing touch to this joyous spectacle, making it the perfect introduction to classical ballet. Following the 2023 premiere of the Nerubashenko Ballet Project, this UK tour features the performing artists of Mergaliyev Classical Ballet. Artistic Directors Yassaui and Sophie Mergaliyev are delighted to present a company of international dancers as part of the Project’s ambition to develop talented artistes.
Babbacombe Theatre
Selected dates in November and December 2023
The Magic of Christmas
https://www.babbacombe-theatre.com/upcoming-shows/the-magic-of-christmas
Music, Magic, and Mirth in all its guises is what ‘The Magic Of Christmas’ promises. Mind boggling Illusions, comedic classics, hits of yesteryear and today, interspersed cleverly to deliver a show that has pace and will leave you wanting more.
Palace Theatre
www.palacetheatrepaignton.co.uk
22nd to 25th November 2023
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
https://www.palacetheatrepaignton.co.uk/series/the-lion-the-witch-and-the-wardrobe/
Bijou Theatre Productions are delighted to be performing the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
That delightful story of 4 children who go through a magic wardrobe and find themselves in Narnia a magical world ruled by an evil white queen. This is an exciting project for Bijou and a delightful fun evening out to be enjoyed by all ages. A real pre Christmas treat!
2nd and 3rd December 2023
Christmas Happy Feet
https://www.palacetheatrepaignton.co.uk/series/christmas-happy-feet/
Festive all dancing, all singing show showcasing many different genres of dance and performed by the local students of Miss Jenny’s School of Dancing
16th December to 1st January 2023
Aladdin
https://www.palacetheatrepaignton.co.uk/shows/aladdin-the-pantomime/
Pantomime production of the classic story from Paignton Pantomime Productions.
7th January 2023
Jack and the Beanstalk
Wonder Pantomimes are pleased to be bringing Jack and the Beanstalk to the Palace Theatre this festive season.
Times are hard for the Trott family; they have no money which means they can’t afford to pay the rent. The only thing they have of any value is their beloved cow, which they decide that they must sell. But when Jack is sent to market to do the terrible deed, he comes home with nothing but a handful of moldy old beans-and that’s when the magic really begins!
Join Jack on his GIANT adventure as he climbs the beanstalk to an enchanted land of excitement and adventure, where he must rescue his friends and family from the ‘Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum’ of one very hungry giant! This really is a Christmas treat not to be missed!
Exeter Northcott
30th November to 7th January
https://exeternorthcott.co.uk/events/dick-whittington/
Following their record-breaking smash hit, Robin Hood, Exeter Northcott and Le Navet Bete are teaming up once again to bring you an unmissable family panto for Christmas 2023 – Dick Whittington! Expect plenty of laughs, great music, amazing special effects and full-on fun for every generation with this fabulous rags-to-riches tale.
10 Dec, 2.30pm - Audio-described performance.
14 Dec, 7pm - BSL-interpreted performance by Daryl McMullan – Provided by Complete Communication LTD.
6 Jan, 2.30pm - Relaxed performance.
12th February 2024
The Sooty Show 75th Birthday Spectacular
https://exeternorthcott.co.uk/events/the-sooty-show-75th-birthday-spectacular/
Celebrating 75 amazing years in show business, Sooty, Sweep and Soo are planning a very special birthday party
and you’re all invited. However, in true Sooty style nothing goes to plan!
The party preparations are well underway: Sooty gets messy baking the birthday cake, Soo’s trying to find the perfect party dress, and Sweep’s practising his dance moves and needs some boys and girls to join in with musical statues! Sooty is planning his biggest magic trick yet making a member of the audience float in the air! Oh, and watch out for Sooty’s new water pistol. It’s turbocharged to reach right to the back of the theatre, so don’t forget your raincoat!
The special guests are on their way – Butch the bulldog, Ramsbottom the snake and circus superstar Michael Jordan, who joins us direct from Blackpool’s famous Tower Circus to stun us with his jaw-dropping juggling!
With buckets of audience participation and gallons of giggles, this spectacular celebration of the longest-running children’s television show in the world will delight Sooty fans old and new and is a must-see treat for the whole family.
Plus – join in after the show to meet Richard and Sooty!
Barnfield Theatre
1st to 9th December 2023
Nativity! The Musical
https://exeternorthcott.co.uk/events/nativity-the-musical/
Every child in every school has one Christmas wish, to star in a Nativity, and at St Bernadette’s School they’re attempting to mount a musical version! Only trouble is teacher Mr Maddens has promised that a Hollywood producer is coming to see the show to turn it into a film. Join him, his teaching assistant the crazy Mr Poppy, hilarious children and a whole lot of sparkle and shine as they struggle to make everyone’s Christmas wish come true.
Feel-good, funny and full of yuletide joy, Nativity! The Musical features all of your favourite sing-along hits from the films, including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment, She’s the Brightest Star and a whole host of new songs filled with the spirit of Christmas!
13th to 24th December 2023
Dear Santa
https://exeternorthcott.co.uk/events/dear-santa/
Santa is determined to deliver the most fantastic Christmas present to Sarah, but he doesn’t get it right straight away! With the help of his cheeky Elf, he finally settles on something ‘perfect’, just in time for Christmas Eve.
From the author of the well-loved children’s book Dear Zoo, Rod Campbell, comes Dear Santa and it’s LIVE! This show is an ideal introduction to theatre for those aged two and over. The Christmas cheer continues, with the opportunity to meet Santa in his grotto after the show, where every child will receive an extra special gift!
It’s sure to be one Christmas present children and parents alike will never forget. The perfect family show that will be enjoyed by all this Festive Season.
30th and 31st December 2023
Jack and the Beanstalk
https://exeternorthcott.co.uk/events/jack-the-beanstalk/.jpg)
Wonder Pantomimes are pleased to be bringing Jack and the Beanstalk to the Barnfield Theatre this festive season.
Times are hard for the Trott family; they have no money which means they can’t afford to pay the rent. The only thing they have of any value is their beloved cow, which they decide that they must sell. But when Jack is sent to market to do the terrible deed, he comes home with nothing but a handful of moldy old beans-and that’s when the magic really begins!
Join Jack on his GIANT adventure as he climbs the beanstalk to an enchanted land of excitement and adventure, where he must rescue his friends and family from the ‘Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum’ of one very hungry giant! This really is a Christmas treat not to be missed!
Exmouth Pavilion
3rd December 2023
Santa’s Christmas Wish
https://www.exmouthpavilion.co.uk/whats-on/the-santa-show/
Christmas is a season of joy, love and sharing, a time when Santa delivers presents all over the world… but what would Santa himself like for Christmas?
Dasher the Reindeer has an idea…Pompom the Penguin thinks he knows…Or maybe Snowy the Snowman has the answer?
Dotty the Elf needs all their help – and yours – to find out!
Join a fun, festive, musical adventure to give Santa the very best Christmas, then meet him at his home in the North Pole! There every child will receive a special present from Father Christmas in our popular meet, greet and treat, after the most Christmassy Christmas show ever!
Songs include festive favourites
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jingle Bells,When Santa Got Stuck Up The Chimney, The Twelve Days Of Christmas,
We Wish You A Merry Christmasand many more!”
Santa’s Christmas Wish is a festive, song-filled, interactive family show
particularly suitable for 2-8 year olds. It lasts 45 minutes and is followed by a special meet, greet and treat with Father Christmas himself!
6th December 2023
A Christmas Carol
https://www.exmouthpavilion.co.uk/whats-on/a-christmas-carol/#book-now
Join Chapterhouse Theatre Company and celebrate Winter 2023 with the most heart-warming production imaginable to melt the hearts of even the sternest of Scrooges. Now in its twelfth year of touring A Christmas Carol, Chapterhouse returns to wonderful venues with this most beautiful family-friendly rendition of one of the most memorable Christmas stories ever written.
On Christmas Eve, the most magical night of the year, the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is whisked away on a terrifying journey through the past and into the future, accompanied by three fearsome ghosts determined to make him realize the true meaning of Christmas.
Charles Dickens’ classic ghost story is brought alive in this wonderfully traditional production, complete with beautiful period costume, song, dance, and a magnificent original musical score.
Join critically acclaimed Chapterhouse Theatre Company for this family treat, as Scrooge’s frozen heart begins to melt and he finally embraces the festive spirit in the most Christmassy of Christmas takes.
10th December 2023
Christmas At The Musicals
https://www.exmouthpavilion.co.uk/whats-on/christmas-at-the-musicals-by-exmouth-youth-theatre/
Following from last year’s sell out, Exmouth Youth Theatre’s fabulous Christmas show returns! Don’t miss this family friendly show packed full of Broadway hits and festive favourites. Featuring songs from Wicked, Waitress, The Prom, Les Misérables, Oliver, Elf, White
Christmas & many more this is guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit.
So, gather friends & family together and join us for this special feast of festive cheer.
17th December 2023
Step Into Christmas
Multi award winning Centre Stage bring you their Christmas spectacular, STEP INTO CHRISTMAS. All of your favourite Christmas music (and new tunes) under one roof celebrating the festive season.
The company is delighted to support the Christmas Jumper appeal and Exmouth Friends In need at the end of show charity collections.
Please make sure you don your best Christmas Jumper or fancy dress, there is a competition for best dressed adult and best dressed child.
Dates from 22nd December 2023
Beauty and The Beast
https://www.exmouthpavilion.co.uk/whats-on/beauty-and-the-beast-pantomime/
Trio Entertainment return to Exmouth Pavilion for this year's Magical Christmas Pantomime Beauty & the Beast - A Brand New Enchanting Family Pantomime!
Panto Favourite "Stuart Earp" returns for his 9th Pavilion Pantomime!
In a tale that’s as old as time, it’s time to discover what it takes for true love to conquer all!
The mysterious Beast imprisons Beauty in his enchanted castle. Can she escape with the help of her family and melt the Beast’s icy heart before it’s too late? Will the plan work before the last rose petal falls?
So join in the fun and boo the evil Gaston as he tries to win the heart of Beauty. Laugh out loud with the hilarious Loopy Louis and Dame Potty Polly as we tell a tale as old as time, packed with songs, dance and lots of comedy.
The Beehive
www.thebeehive.savoysystems.co.uk
20th December 2023
The Elf Who Lost Santa Claus
The Elf Who Lost Santa Claus! presented by the Candlelight Theatre Company
Join in this Christmas for a magical, interactive show which will delight the whole family and get you all in to the Christmas Spirit!
Meet Santa’s elves Sparkles, Bumble and Mistletoe. They have been tasked with arranging an afternoon for a very special group of to meet Santa.
Unfortunately, Mistletoe is just being naughty and not taking his job very seriously, Bumble is getting annoyed with Mistletoe and Sparkles forgot to do something which means Santa may not even make it to meet everyone.
Can you help them to get along and find a way to make sure that Santa arrives in time?
Join Candlelight as they present this interactive experience that will leave you feeling Christmassy…
22nd December 2023
A Magical Christmas
https://beehivehoniton.co.uk/events/happy-days-productions-presents-a-magical-christmas/
Happy Days productions are delighted to bring you their Magical Christmas Show. A Christmas variety show full of all your favourite Christmas songs, along with laughter, fantastic choreography and truly spectacular costumes!
Exeter Corn Exchange
www.exetercornexchange.co.uk
1st December 2023
The Wizard Of Oz – Ballet Theatre
https://www.exetercornexchange.co.uk/whats-on/the-wizard-of-oz-ballet-theatre-uk/
Join Ballet Theatre UK as we follow the yellow brick road and discover all the wonders of Oz.
Enjoy Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tinman, and Lion, (and yes Toto too) as they seek the Wonderful Wizard to find that there's no place like home!
The Wizard of Oz is a two act, full-length, ballet adaptation of the iconic tale by L. Frank Baum, told through the magic of classical dance. Set to a classical score which brings the story to life, this production is family friendly and is the perfect way to introduce children to the classical ballet.
16th December to 1st January 2023
Sleeping Beauty
https://www.exetercornexchange.co.uk/whats-on/sleeping-beauty/
SLEEPING BEAUTY is the panto dream come true, with delightful fairy-tale sets and costumes, sing-alongs, slapstick and fun for everyone!
Now in its 14th amazing year, the Corn Exchange panto is a Christmas tradition at the heart of the city.
The multi-award-winning creative team return with the classic story set in the enchanted Fairyland, full of magic, merriment- oh and a big dragon!
Once again, a top cast returns, combining familiar faces and leading West End stars. We are thrilled to welcome Rachel Modest as Queen Clarabelle - last year she wowed Tom Jones on THE VOICE so much he declared "you are the real deal!" And she really is!
Loads of laughs and epic vocals! Sweet dreams are made of this!
The Plough Arts Centre
www.theploughartscentre.org.uk
29th November 2023
Five Children and It.
https://www.theploughartscentre.org.uk/event/quirk-theatre-presents-five-children-and-it-enesbit
Quirk Theatre return to The Plough with a heartwarming and hilarious festive adventure all about wishes. Wishes that are granted by an anarchic fairy-monster-thingy with eyes on stalks. Wishes that could make their wildest dreams come true. The lucky children who find the Psammead can wish for anything!
But as the old saying goes, they might need to be careful what they wish for... This Christmas, join the Psammead and five children for a fresh, festive take on an absolute classic as E. Nesbit’s beloved children’s book gets the Quirk treatment.
Quirk are known for their inventive and innovative approach to live theatre, wowing audiences with their use of projection, puppetry, creative set design and original music. Essentially simple, beautifully effective and brilliant fun, Quirk deliver an exciting, engaging and magical experience for all.
Exeter Phoenix
17th to 28th December 2023
Five Children And It
https://exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/five-children-it/
Quirk Theatre return to Exeter Phoenix for their 20th show with a heartwarming and hilarious festive adventure all about wishes
Wishes that are granted by an anarchic fairy-monster-thingy with eyes on stalks. Wishes that last for only one day and disappear at sunset. The lucky children who find the Psammead can wish for anything! But as the old saying goes, they might need to be careful what they wish for…
This Christmas, join the Psammead and five children for a fresh, festive take on a childhood classic, as E. Nesbit’s beloved children’s book gets the Quirk treatment.
24th January 2023
The Greatest Magician: An Evening of Wonders
https://exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/the-greatest-magician/
A dazzling, enigmatic, five star rated magic show, presented by the magician most famous for jamming the BBC switchboard after he correctly predicted the lottery, and directed by the late Paul Daniels – it’s actually presented by Paul’s nephew, James Phelan – and so is a bit of a love letter to him.
Queens Theatre, Barnstaple
www.queenstheatre-barnstaple.com
30th November to 2nd December 2023
Nativity
https://www.queenstheatre-barnstaple.com/event/nativity/
Barnstaple Musical Comedy & Dramatic Society presents Nativity! The Musical!
Feel –good, funny and full of yuletide joy, Nativity! The Musical features all of the favourite sing-a-long hits from the films including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment, She’s the Brightest Star and a whole host of new songs filled with the spirit of Christmas!
Every child in every school has one Christmas wish, to star in a Nativity, and at St Bernadette’s School they’re attempting to mount a musical version! Only trouble is teacher Mr Maddens has promised that a Hollywood producer is coming to see the show to turn it into a film. Join him, his teaching assistant the crazy Mr Poppy, hilarious children and a whole lot of sparkle and shine as they struggle to make everyone’s Christmas wish come true.
13th to 31st December 2023
Sleeping Beauty
https://www.queenstheatre-barnstaple.com/event/sleeping-beauty-north-devons-panto-2023/
North Devon’s biggest and brightest pantomime is back in 2023. The Queen’s Theatre brings you a dream of a panto – Sleeping Beauty!
Let us take you to a land far, far away. A land of Enchanted Castles, Handsome Princes, Wicked Fairies and Fire Breathing Dragons. A magical tale where dreams really do come true, but there is nothing sleepy about this panto as you will be laughing all the way to a happy ever after.
Join all your favourite pantomime characters as they take you on a journey of spinning wheels, adventure and romance. With lavish scenery, spectacular costumes, dazzling special effects, a hilarious new script and show stopping song and dance routines, Sleeping Beauty will leave you spellbound!
14th February 2023
The Sooty Show – 75th Birthday Spectacular
Celebrating 75 amazing years in show business, Sooty, Sweep and Soo are planning a very special birthday party and you’re all invited. However, in true Sooty style nothing goes to plan!
The party preparations are well underway: Sooty gets messy baking the birthday cake, Soo’s trying to find the perfect party dress, and Sweep’s practising his dance moves and needs some boys and girls to join in with musical statues! Sooty is planning his biggest magic trick yet making a member of the audience float in the air! Oh, and watch out for Sooty’s new water pistol. It’s turbocharged to reach right to the back of the theatre, so don’t forget your raincoat!
The special guests are on their way – Butch the bulldog, Ramsbottom the snake and circus superstar Michael Jordan, who joins us direct from Blackpool’s famous Tower Circus to stun us with his jaw-dropping juggling!
With buckets of audience participation and gallons of giggles, this spectacular celebration of the longest-running children’s television show in the world will delight Sooty fans old and new and is a must-see treat for the whole family.
Plus – join in after the show to meet Richard and Sooty!
The Landmark, Ilfracombe
www.queenstheatre-barnstaple.com
23rd and 24th December 2023
Santa’s Christmas Wish
Christmas is a season of joy, love and sharing, a time when Santa delivers presents all over the world… but what would Santa himself like for Christmas? Dasher the Reindeer has an idea…Pompom the Penguin thinks he knows…Or maybe Snowy the Snowman has the answer?
Dotty the Elf needs all their help – and yours – to find out!
Join a fun, festive, musical adventure to give Santa the very best Christmas, then meet him at his home in the North Pole! There every child will receive a special present from Father Christmas in our popular meet, greet and treat, after the most Christmassy Christmas show ever!
Songs include festive favourites Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jingle Bells,When Santa Got Stuck Up The Chimney, The Twelve Days Of Christmas,We Wish You A Merry Christmas and many more!”
Santa’s Christmas Wish is a festive, song-filled, interactive family show
particularly suitable for 2-8 year olds. It lasts 45 minutes and is followed by a special meet, greet and treat with Father Christmas himself!
RHS Rosemoor
10th December 2023
Jack and the Beanstalk
Wonder Pantomimes are pleased to be bringing Jack and the Beanstalk to RHS Rosemoor this festive season.
Times are hard for the Trott family; they have no money which means they can’t afford to pay the rent. The only thing they have of any value is their beloved cow, which they decide that they must sell. But when Jack is sent to market to do the terrible deed, he comes home with nothing but a handful of moldy old beans-and that’s when the magic really begins!
Join Jack on his GIANT adventure as he climbs the beanstalk to an enchanted land of excitement and adventure, where he must rescue his friends and family from the ‘Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum’ of one very hungry giant! This really is a Christmas treat not to be missed!
The Box, Plymouth
23rd December 2023
Museum Mischief
https://www.theboxplymouth.com/events/christmas-2023/museum-mischief
Interactive experience where visitors need to help Santa’s elves make sure that Santa arrives on time with the Candlelight Theatre Company
Shaftesbury Theatre
1st December
Jack and the Beanstalk
https://shaftesbury-dawlish.co.uk/event/wonder-panto-2/
Wonder Pantomimes are pleased to be bringing Jack and the Beanstalk toThe Shaftesbury Theatre, Dawlish this festive season.
Times are hard for the Trott family; they have no money which means they can’t afford to pay the rent. The only thing they have of any value is their beloved cow, which they decide that they must sell. But when Jack is sent to market to do the terrible deed, he comes home with nothing but a handful of moldy old beans-and that’s when the magic really begins!
Join Jack on his GIANT adventure as he climbs the beanstalk to an enchanted land of excitement and adventure, where he must rescue his friends and family from the ‘Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum’ of one very hungry giant! This really is a Christmas treat not to be missed!
5th to 13th January 2023
Mother Goose
https://shaftesbury-dawlish.co.uk/event/mothergoose/
In this captivating and fun pantomime script, we first meet Fairy Bowbells and her book of spells. She tells us that she may need us to help her defeat a villain. Mother Goose and her son Billy run their cafe in Gooseland – but business is poor and they can’t pay the rent. Wicked Squire Sludge has opened his burger bar just over the road and is taking all their customers. Jill arrives in the village and starts to help Mother Goose and Billy. Soon they all realise there must be something magical about the wonderful Goose Priscilla. Then Squire Sludge tricks Billy out of the money for the rent. Everyone is worried – until Priscilla starts to lay golden eggs!
The Big Sheep
www.thebigsheep.co.uk/events-gigs/
16th and 17th December 2023
Peter Pan
https://tickets.thebigsheep.co.uk/event-tickets/52788?catID=51389&
Fly away on the adventure of a lifetime this Christmas as Peter Pan swoops into town! Join the Lost Boys in a battle against Captain Hook, and escape on an awfully big adventure from the team behind Hercules, Sleeping Beauty and Jack and the Beanstalk.
Featuring a motley crew of professional actors playing all the characters you know and love, some spectacular swashbuckling, and a whole host of songs to sing along to, this is a fabulous Christmas feast for all ages.
The Gateway Theatre, Seaton
16th December 2023
Christmas Family Fun and The Grinch
Join in for a festive fun afternoon for all the family with our film 'The Grinch' and lots of Christmas activities!
They are excited to have Santa in his Grotto, every child will get a small gift from Santa, included in the ticket price. There will be face painting (extra charge), Letters to Santa to go in our special Postbox, stockings to colour and hang on the fireplace, plus the cafe and bar will be open, selling festive drinks and cakes. There is a ticket option to just see Santa and join in the activities if you do not want to see the film.
Fancy dress or Christmas jumpers are definitely encouraged!
18th to 20th December 2023
Jack and the Beanstalk
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/devon/seaton-gateway-theatre/jack-and-the-beanstalk/e-zqlygj
Wonder Pantomimes are pleased to be bringing Jack and the Beanstalk to The Gateway, Seaton this festive season.
Times are hard for the Trott family; they have no money which means they can’t afford to pay the rent. The only thing they have of any value is their beloved cow, which they decide that they must sell. But when Jack is sent to market to do the terrible deed, he comes home with nothing but a handful of moldy old beans-and that’s when the magic really begins!
Join Jack on his GIANT adventure as he climbs the beanstalk to an enchanted land of excitement and adventure, where he must rescue his friends and family from the ‘Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum’ of one very hungry giant! This really is a Christmas treat not to be missed!
Pavilions Teignmouth
www.pavilionsteignmouth.org.uk
2nd December 2023
Santa’s Christmas Wish
Christmas is a season of joy, love and sharing, a time when Santa delivers presents all over the world… but what would Santa himself like for Christmas?Dasher the Reindeer has an idea…Pompom the Penguin thinks he knows…Or maybe Snowy the Snowman has the answer?
Dotty the Elf needs all their help – and yours – to find out!
Join a fun, festive, musical adventure to give Santa the very best Christmas, then meet him at his home in the North Pole! There every child will receive a special present from Father Christmas in our popular meet, greet and treat, after the most Christmassy Christmas show ever!
Songs include festive favourites Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jingle Bells,When Santa Got Stuck Up The Chimney, The Twelve Days Of Christmas,We Wish You A Merry Christmas and many more!”
Santa’s Christmas Wish is a festive, song-filled, interactive family show
particularly suitable for 2-8 year olds. It lasts 45 minutes and is followed by a special meet, greet and treat with Father Christmas himself!
23rd to 30th December 2023
Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs
https://www.pavilionsteignmouth.org.uk/events/teignmouth-players-snow-white-seven-dwarfs
The Teignmouth Players bring you traditional pantomime fun with slapstick,songs, dances, and humour.
Princess Snow White is driven from the palace by the actions of her jealous stepmother, who hates her for her beauty and has ordered her death. But the Royal Huntsman who has been tasked with the evil job can’t go through with the wicked deed and tells Snow White to run away into the forest. Alone and frightened, Snow-White stumbles upon the cottage of the seven dwarfs, who take her in and protect her from the evil Queen. Through her magic mirror the Queen learns that Snow White isn’t dead, and she sets out to find her and finish the job herself.
Can the handsome Prince save the day?
Torre Abbey, Torquay
https://www.torre-abbey.org.uk/whats-on
14th December
Once Upon a Christmas
https://www.torre-abbey.org.uk/whats-on/family-theatre-once-upon-a-christmas/
An interactive, multi-sensory show for children in Early Years up to age 8.
Set in the home of Mother & Father Christmas by the festive fireplace as they prepare for the big day, with scents of Christmas spices and gingerbread.
Join the merry couple as they share seasonal stories, songs and memories.
Watch out for mischievous elves!
This show has something for everyone and will leave you with a warm festive glow.