Festive Shows To Look Out For In South of England In 2025
Written by Amelia for Theatre and Tonic
As the festive season approaches, theatres across Hampshire are preparing to welcome audiences for one of Britain’s most beloved traditions: the Christmas pantomime. Part fairy tale, part stand-up, part fever dream, every Christmas we are reminded why live theatre matters and why it’s important to introduce so many different people to the art form. From Peter Pan to Puss in Boots, Winchester to Portsmouth, there’s something magical (and mildly ridiculous) for everyone.
Perhaps the most well-known theatre on the South Coast, the Southampton Mayflower always delivers on the classic tradition. Following two years of Diversity, the pantomime here has really cemented itself as one to make the journey for, and the celebrity lineup this year looks to be equally as good. With Alexandra Burke and Dr Ranj at the forefront of the cast, Peter Pan looks to be another smash hit for the venue. The Mayflower pantomime runs from the 13th of December until January 4th.
The Saints and the Pompey fans may disagree most of the year, but when panto season hits, there’s room for everyone in the audience. With Aladdin taking over the Kings Theatre in Portsmouth this year, they welcome musical theatre star Esme Bowdler, Eastenders alumni Shaun Williamson, and Pompey panto legend Jack Edwards, amongst other fantastic cast members. The Kings always knows how to make the festive season sparkle, capping off another standout year for theatre in 2025. Aladdin runs from the 5th until the 31st of December.
And if that wasn’t enough, just down the road is the New Theatre Royal, which is taking on Snow White this year. Fellow Mamma Mia! I Have A Dream contestant Darcy James stars as the leading man, with panto favourites Julia Worsley and Harry Howle at his side. As one of the season’s most beloved pantomimes, Snow White takes centre stage in a city overflowing with Christmas spirit, running from 12th of December until January 4th.
Coming away from the major cities, the Princes Hall in Aldershot presents Jack and the Beanstalk for its 2025 season. Join Jack and his dotty mum Dame Trott as they scale the Beanstalk, outwit the Giant and are reunited with Jack’s true love. The Aldershot adventure runs from 5th of December until January 4th.
Our final Hampshire pantomime takes place in Winchester and isn’t your traditional fairy tale. Puss in Boots at Theatre Royal Winchester is a brand-new production of the classic tale of Colin and his clever cat, Puss. With Bekah Selina as Puss and an amazing accompanying cast, the production runs from 29th of November until January 4th.
If you’re willing to travel a bit further afield, Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre is showing Cinderella this year with Gavin and Stacey star Melanie Waters and Noel Brodie returning for his 11th year as Buttons. The production promises big set design, dazzling costumes and West End-style production value, running from the 6th of December until January 4th.
If pantomimes aren’t your vibe, then maybe you’d like to see your favourite film with a live concert orchestra. Love Actually in Concert plays at the Lighthouse in Poole on the 28th of November, and at the Portsmouth Guildhall on the 29th. The Holiday in Concert also plays in London if you can drive or get the train up there. Similarly, Christmas at the Movies plays at the previously mentioned Mayflower Theatre, which is a concert by the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra featuring music and scores from classic Christmas films like It’s a Wonderful Life, Home Alone and The Polar Express. There’s plenty of options for everyone!
Whether you’re a lifelong pantomime fan or looking for a special family outing, Hampshire’s Christmas theatre scene reminds us why live performance is such a magical way to celebrate the season. So grab your tickets, settle in with a mince pie, and let the curtain rise on some unforgettable festive memories.
