PANTO SEASON

'Tis the season to be jolly!

It's Christmas time, mistletoe and panto! Tall tales of taller beanstalks, fairies and magic lamps, and of good trouncing evil – with an accompaniment of giggles, boos and song. Christmas just wouldn't be the same without a trip to panto-land. Pulse's Sammy Jones picked up her magic wand to bring you the best of the shows happening where you are...

Panto: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Starring: Rob Rinder, Lesley Joseph and Paul Chuckle Where: Milton Keynes Theatre When: Saturday, December 10, 2022 – Sunday, January 8, 2023

What to expect: A real treat with this magical version of the classic fairytale with side-splitting comedy, sensational special effects and festive magic in abundance as Rob and Lesley reprise their roles from last year's show in Bristol.

They say: “After last year's joyous Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, it felt terribly wrong to keep my magic mirror in Bristol,” said Rob, “I'm delighted to be sharing my sparkling reflections with the people of Milton Keynes this year...Lesley Joseph's Wicked Queen should beware!”

Who's it for? It's family friendly fabulousness all the way!

And another thing: Special effects are once again being built for the production by The Twins FX who are at the top of their game. You are in for a treat. Hi Ho! it's off to Milton Keynes Theatre the cast of Snow White go Get tickets: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Fee-fi-fo-fum... lots of fun for the whole family at Northampton Derngate Panto: Jack and the Beanstalk Starring: Keala Settle from The Greatest Showman, Horrible Histories' Richard David-Caine and Alex Lodge as Jack Where: Northampton Derngate When: Friday, December 9, 2022 – Monday, January 2, 2023

What to expect: The wonderful story of Jack and the Beanstalk, with a vocal powerhouse and Tony Award-nominee as a Fairy. Naturally.

They say: “I am absolutely thrilled to be appearing in my first ever pantomime,” said Keala, “Panto is such a beloved institution in this country and I have always wanted to be a part of one...I can't wait!”

Who's it for? Round-up the whole family, call up your pals or come alone – it's for everyone.

And another thing: Bob Golding was a hit with audiences last year when he joined Ricky Champ at Derngate to star in Dick Whittington. He proved so popular that the venue is welcoming him back for the 2022 season.

Panto: Aladdin Starring: Holby City and Eastenders' favourite Davood Ghadami, Andy Collins from BBC Three Counties and Britain's Got Talent star La Voix Where: Aylesbury Waterside Theatre When: Friday, December 2, 2022 – Monday, January 2, 2023

What to expect: Davood will be putting the 'oo' into the boo-able baddie Abanazar in this year's seasonal show, and he'll be joined by returning cast members Andy and La Voix.

They say: “I have heard amazing things about the Waterside's panto and have been forewarned that the audiences are likely to give me a good ol' booing I'm ready to be a baddie in a league of my own...get practising your hisses and I'll look forward to meeting you this Christmas.”

Who's it for? Family fun by the lamp-load is on the way

And another thing: Davood appeared in the 15th series of Wishes come true at Aylesbury Strictly Come Dancing, where he reached the quarter finals with Waterside Theatre in Aladdin dance partner Nadiya Bychkova.

Get tickets: atgtickets.com/aylesbury

Arrrrgh me hearties! There be a motley crew at the OU

Panto: Treasure Island Starring: Fine folks from Open Theatre Group & Tread the Boards Where: The Hub Theatre, the Open University When: Friday, December 16 – Thursday, December 22

What to expect: A swashbuckling adventure by Ben Crocker bursting with traditional slapstick, song and dance and opportunities for boos and cheers aplenty.

They say: “It will be wonderful to see the auditorium busy and to be able to have an interval after such a challenging time last year,” says director Annette Probert.

Who's it for? Panto loving people who want to have a good time.

And another thing: Treasure Island was planned for last Christmas, but Covid complications meant an alternative one-hour show was staged, called RATS!

Get tickets: ticketsource.co.uk/opentheatregroup

The Night Before Christmas

WIN TICKETS

to see The Adventures of The Little Red Hen turn to page 59 Panto: The Christmas Show: The Adventures of The Little Red Hen Starring: The clever folks from Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company Where: The Stables, Milton Keynes When: Monday, December 19 – Saturday December 24, 2022 Panto: The Night Before

Christmas Starring: Members of Polka Theatre Where: Northampton Underground When: Friday, November 25 – Saturday, December 31, 2022

What to expect: An energetic adaptation of this much loved story, featuring a breathtaking combination of brilliant puppetry, live music and unforgettable comedy.

They say: “Who will help me plant these grains of wheat?”

“Not I” said the Pig.

“Not I” said the Rat.

“Not I” said the Cow.

“Fair enough,” said the Little Red Hen, “I’ll do it myself!”

Who's it for? “The show is suitable for all the family, but particularly aimed at children aged three to 10 years. We always receive feedback from audiences that whole families have enjoyed our shows,” said Stuff and Nonsense, “We have lots of grandparents treating grandchildren, and lots of 'littlies' for whom it’s their first theatre trip. We make sure that there is something for everyone to enjoy, whatever their age.”

And another thing: The last time they performed at The Stables more than 1700 people attended performances, so get your skates on and buy those tickets before they sell out! What to expect: This enchanting show will bring to life this treasured festive poem as audiences follow Father Christmas and his reindeer on their busy Christmas Eve journey.

They say: “I have a busy night ahead, so come and join me as I make sure every last present is delivered on time!” said Santa's Reindeer, Blitzen.

Who's it for? This magical show is ideal for under 7s and their grown ups.

And another thing: In December the Underground foyer area will be transformed into a space full of fun activities, so remember to leave time to hang out and play before and after the performance.

Panto: Potted Panto Starring: Dan and Jeff - the duo who delivered Potted Potter Where: The Core, Corby When: Wednesday, December 7- Sunday, December 11, 2022

What to expect: Seven classic pantomimes "potted" into 70 madcap minutes.

A dastardly duo brings you all the biggest stories and best-loved characters from the wonderful world of pantomime, in one show. It has enjoyed rave reviews and multiple festive runs in London over 12 years, and visits Corby for just four days before returning to the West End.

They say: "I, Prince Charming, am readying my horse for a fleeting yet magical visit in Corby with Potted Panto this festive season. I am also readying my udders, my feather boa, my beak, my rat and my bucket of poo - come and join me, you'll see. Huzzah for me!"

Who's it for? Like all the best pantos, there is something for all ages with lots of chances to join in and plenty of laughs for the whole family. And with so much in so little time, there is absolutely no chance of boredom setting in!

And another thing: The show's creators, Dan and Jeff presented CBBC for 18 months in their younger days and have received not one, but two Olivier Award nominations for their family shows.

Get tickets: thecorecorby.com

Some day her Prince will come - Ashleigh and Sully star at the Old Savoy The Potted Panto brings some fun and mayhem to the Core at Corby

Panto: Snow White Starring: Britain's Got Talent stars Ashleigh Butler and her sidekick, Sully, children's comedian and entertainer Mark Jones and TikTok sensation Patrick Lewin. Where: The Old Savoy, Northampton When: December Friday, December 9 – Saturday, December 31, 2022

What to expect: A traditional pantomime with festive fun and jokes for the whole family.

They say: “I'm incredibly excited to be playing Snow White,” Ashleigh said, “It's a truly magical way to enjoy the festive season, and Sully is really 'yappy' to be joining the cast too!”

Who's it for? All ages – from babes in arms to those who are 106!

And another thing: Snow White was the very first full-length that Disney ever made – it took around three years to reach completion.

Get tickets: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Panto: Santa's Christmas Rescue Starring: Santa, of course! Where: The Core, Corby When: Monday, December 12 – Saturday, December 24, 2022

Panto: Jack and the Beanstalk Starring: Matt Montfort, Elizabeth Armstrong, Adam Borzone, Sarafina Doussay, Will Frazer and Daisy the Cow Where: Castle Theatre, Wellingborough When: Saturday, December 3 - Saturday, December 31, 2022

Jack's back at the Castle Theatre in Wellingborough

What to expect: Take your seat for a trip deep into the world of fairy tales, where poor hero Jack and his dotty mum Dame Trott are tricked into selling their beloved cow Daisy for a useless bag of beans.

They say: “Laugh at Silly Simon, boo and hiss the wicked Fleshcreep and cheer me on as I try to rescue my sweetheart Jill from the nasty castle in the clouds,” invited Jack.

Who's it for? It's 'fe fi fo fun' for the whole family.

And another thing: Will and Adam are back on the Castle stage following a successful run in 2021, and Elizabeth has just been on the road touring in Hairspray. What to expect: Santa’s Christmas Rescue is an interactive story-based show full of wellknown songs for children and parents to join in with. They say: “Ho, ho ho! Rudolph, myself and the elves cannot wait to see you all at Santa’s Christmas Rescue this December!” says Santa, keeping it to the point. Who's it for? Pre-school children and their families will love this show. And another thing: After the performance, Santa and the Elves will stick around to meet you all, and children will receive a gift.