Christmas is a great time to go to the theatre to see a panto or a family Christmas show. Here’s my guide to the best 2024 pantomimes in Manchester and Cheshire, as well as the best ‘non panto’ family Christmas theatre shows. We have a great guide to all the Christmas Events in Cheshire too.
2024 Pantomimes in Cheshire & Manchester
He’s behind you, oh no he isn’t, oh yes he is. A great pantomime is full of larger than life characters, lots of laughs, a villain that everyone hates, a comical dame and young love. A very British tradition a Christmas, here’s the definitive list of pantomimes in Buckinghamshire for 2024.
Sleeing Beauty at The Plaza (Stockport)
With a sensational cast, spectacular costumes and magnificent scenery, this is the affordable family treat that everyone can enjoy this festive season.
Beauty & TheBeast at the Lyceum Theatre (Crewe)
Make memories this festive season with this fun-filled festive cracker which is the perfect treat for all of the family.Check out our Crewe Lyceum Panto Review 2023
Sleeping Beauty at The Storyhouse (Chester)
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will transport you to a world of wonder, packed with pop favourites, audience interaction and dazzling dances.Storyhouse Chester panto review 2023
Jack & The Beanstalk at Altrincham Garrick Playhouse (Altrincham)
Expect laughs, music, dance, special effects, dazzling costumes, stunning sets, magic beans and bundles of audience participation at the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse!
Peter Pan at Grange Theatre (Northwich)
Filled with comedy, aerial performance, song and dance, visit us this festive season as we transport you to Neverland! Peter Pan is guaranteed to have you dancing on your feet in a production filled to the brim with festive family fun!
Cinderella at the Opera House (Manchester)
Packed with all the traditional pantomime ingredients Manchester audiences expect, Cinderella features laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses.
Jack and the Beanstalk at Middleton Arena (Middleton, Greater Manchester)
Don’t miss this year’s spectacular pantomime featuring a superb cast, beautiful scenery, colourful costumes, amazing 3D effects and lots and lots of laughs!
Snow White at Heywood Sports Village (Heywood, Greater Manchester)
Starring Coronation Street star Steve Arnold as Muddles and television star Basil Brush as the virtual voice and image of the Magic Mirror!
Gingerbread Man The Panto at The Lowry Quays Theatre (Salford)
A Manchester panto show filled with Witches & Whoopee Cushions, Festivity & Frogs – and plenty of Music & Mayhem – all sprinkled with a little sugar and spice to tickle your senses.
Cinderella at the Northwich Memorial Court (Northwich)
Panto is the perfect show for all ages! There are sing-a-longs for the little ones, and of course, jokes for the adults too!
Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs at Ellesmere Port Civic Hall (Ellesmere Port)
Anton Benson Productions return with another sensational family pantomime!
Jack & The Beanstalk at Parr Hall (Warrington)
The perfect way to cheer up a dreary January, this GIANT of a pantomime promises lots of laughs, sparkle and plenty of music and dancing.
Cinderella at Buxton Opera House (Buxton)
Join an incredible cast for another year of wonderful music, the finest comedy routines and a sprinkle of Christmas magic. It’s a pantomime for the whole family to enjoy!
Tinderella at Hope Mill Theatre (Manchester) – ADULTS ONLY
Release your inner child, and then leave them at home because this show is not for kids! In a scandalous twist on the classic fairy tale, it’s time to swipe right on “Tinderella” – the naughtiest adult panto to ever hit the stage!
2024 Festive Family Shows
The Snow Queen at Quarry Bank (9th December only)
Join Quantum Theatre for a performance of the Hans Christian Anderson festive classic, The Snow Queen. Michael Whitmore’s enchanting adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s magical tale conjures up a captivating mix of fantasy, fable and love triumphing over evil in this ever-popular Christmas classic.
Little Bear and the Christmas Lights at The Lowry Quays Theatre (Salford)
Join Little Bear on her magical adventure as she searches for the perfect Christmas lights. Filled with sensory wonders, puppetry and music this is the perfect theatrical experience for your Snowbabies.
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt at The Lowry Quays Theatre (Salford)
The Wrong Reindeer in Oldham Town Centre (Oldham, Greater Manchester)
This free outdoor show is part of the Oldham Christmas lights switch on event on 18th Nov. The day has lots of entertainment too and will have a fireworks finale.
The Snow Queen at the Waterside Theatre (Sale)
This vibrant musical re-telling of The Snow Queen is reimagined in an exciting adventure for the whole family. Created sustainably in every possible way by Wrongsemble.
Hare & Tortoise at Buxton Opera House (Buxton)
This exciting play, especially designed for our younger audience, is a perfect introduction to theatre.
The Snowman Film with Live Orchestra at Chester Cathedral (Chester) 23rd December
The show also includes a fun, festive introduction to the orchestra, and even a visit from the Snowman himself! This magical, festive show – performed within the splendour of Chester Cathedral – is perfect for the whole family to enjoy together, and is sure to create cherished memories.
Forum Theatre (Romiley) – cancelled
