Five London pantomimes to book now
Christmas isn’t Christmas until you’ve seen at least one pantomime. Here’s our pick of five of the best in the capital this season
1. Cinderella
The most magical of pantomimes comes to Hackney this season, as the classic rags-to-riches tale Cinderella makes its mark in true East London style. Cheer on the spirited heroine as she searches for love in spite of the exploits of her Ugly Sisters and evil Stepmother – complete with songs, slapstick comedy and glittering sets.
When: 18 November to Saturday 31 December, performance times vary
How much: From £10 each
Where: Hackney Empire, 291 Mare Street, London E8 1EJ
0208 985 2424
hackneyempire.co.uk
2. Puss In Boots
Promising fun, music and audience participation, Puss In Boots tells the tale of Colin, who unexpectedly inherits a cat – Puss – from his father. Will Colin win the heart of Princess Alice? Will Queen Doris believe that Colin is ‘the one’ for her daughter? Will Igor the Ogre’s henchman scupper Puss’s plans for his master? Well, you’ll just have to go along to find out.
When: 13 December to 28 December
How much: From £12.50 each
Where: Hoxton Hall, 130 Hoxton Street, London N1 6SH
0208 985 2424
hoxtonhall.co.uk
3. Jack & The Beanstalk
Head to the Lyric Hammersmith to enjoy the traditional panto production, Jack & The Beanstalk. When the easily-tricked Jack swaps his cow for a bag of beans, it begins an adventure that takes him up a massive beanstalk into a land inhabited by a man-eating giant. Expect a performance filled with songs, dance, laughter and lots for audiences to join in with.
When: From 18 November to 6 January
How much: From £15 each
Where: Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, London W6 0QL
0208 741 6850
lyric.co.uk
4. Peter Pan
For two days only, experience J. M. Barrie’s magical tale, Peter Pan. Martin Kemp stars as Captain Hook, with Bradley Walsh as Mr Smee, as well as a troop of performers – from BMX riders to trapeze artists and stuntmen. This one will blow you away!
When: From 29 December to 30 December
How much: From £30 each
Where: SSE Arena Wembley, Arena Square, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0DW
0844 815 0815
ssearena.co.uk
5. Dick Whittington
A whole host of stars have come together in this new production of Dick Whittington at the London Palladium. Join Dick Whittington – played by Charlie Stemp – on his daring journey through the streets of London aided by The Spirit Of The Bells – Julian Clary – as they face off against his dastardly nemesis, Queen Rat – portrated by the brilliant Elaine Paige. As if that wasn’t enough, throw in dance troup Diversity, Nigel Havers and Gary Wilmot, and you’ve got a brilliant pantomime adventure.
When: From 9 December until 14 January
How much: From £15 each
Where: The London Palladium, 8 Argyll Street, Soho, London W1F 7TF
0207 494 5020
dickwhittingtonpalladium.com
