The Staffordshire Panto and Christmas Show Guide

The holiday season is the perfect time to enjoy a festive pantomime, and Staffordshire is no exception. With various spectacular shows across the county, there’s no shortage of family-friendly entertainment to get you into the Christmas spirit. From traditional fairy tales to new adaptations, Staffordshire’s pantomimes offer something for everyone. Whether in Cannock, Stoke-on-Trent, or Stafford, you can count on dazzling performances, plenty of laughs, and all the magical moments you expect from a panto. This guide highlights some of the top pantomimes and Christmas events in the region, ensuring you’ll find the perfect outing for your holiday celebrations.

Here’s a rundown of the best panto and festive events in Staffordshire this season:

• Cinderella
  Location: The Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock
  Dates: 21 Dec 2024 – 28 Dec 2024
  Details: The classic tale of Cinderella brought to life with all the glitz, glamour, and pantomime fun.
• #ChristmasInStaffs: Enjoy More Festive Fun
  Location: Throughout Staffordshire
  Dates: 14 Nov 2024 – 5 Jan 2025
  Details: A full calendar of Christmas events across the county, with something for everyone to enjoy!
• Dick Whittington
  Location: The Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent
  Dates: 13 Dec 2024 – 5 Jan 2025
  Details: Stoke-on-Trent favourite Jonathan Wilkes leads the cast in this timeless panto adventure.
• The Three Musketeers
  Location: New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme
  Dates: 15 Nov 2024 – 25 Jan 2025
  Details: A fresh, exciting adaptation of the classic story, perfect for introducing a new generation to the legendary tale.
• Lichfield Cathedral Choir: Christmas by Candlelight
  Location: Lichfield Cathedral
  Date: 19 Dec 2024, 19:30 – 21:30
  Details: Enjoy carols and new arrangements of classic Christmas music in the stunning atmosphere of Lichfield Cathedral.
• Festive of Lessons & Carols
  Location: Lichfield
  Dates: 23 Dec 2024 – 24 Dec 2024, 18:00
  Details: Celebrate the Christmas story with choral music and carol readings.
• Christmas Greetings LIVE!
  Location: Stoke Minster, Stoke-on-Trent
  Date: 12 Dec 2024, 18:00 & 20:30
  Details: An evening of festive classics, live ballet, and music from beloved holiday films like The Nutcracker and White Christmas.
• Jack and the Beanstalk
  Location: Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Stafford
  Details: A magical Christmas pantomime with all the traditional panto elements. Book your tickets now for a seat at this festive favourite

•           The Snowman

  Location: The Regent Theatre,
  Stoke-on-Trent (

  The Snowman is a magical Christmas
  treat for all ages, brought to life on stage in a live performance. This
  beautiful, wordless show is based on the classic Raymond Briggs story and
  features a spectacular mix of live music and stunning visual effects as a boy
  and his snowman come to life on Christmas Eve. A perfect show to capture the
  magic and wonder of Christmas, making it a seasonal tradition for many.

Pantos and Christmas shows further afield

Panto and Christmas Shows in Cheshire, Shropshire, Derbyshire, and the West Midlands

The festive season in Cheshire, Shropshire, Derbyshire, and the West Midlands is never complete without the magic of pantomimes and Christmas shows. Whether you’re a fan of classic fairytales with a comedic twist, a musical extravaganza, or a heartwarming holiday adventure, this region has something for everyone. Here’s a round-up of some of the best panto and Christmas shows to enjoy with family and friends this winter!

Cinderella – The Lyceum Theatre, Crewe (Cheshire)

This year’s panto at the Lyceum Theatre is a classic retelling of Cinderella – with a modern twist! Join Cinderella as she faces her wicked stepmother and stepsisters, all while dreaming of a better life. When the Prince’s ball arrives, it’s a race against time and a magical slipper to find true love. Expect slapstick comedy, dazzling costumes, and lots of audience participation – perfect for all ages!

 Aladdin – The New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham (West Midlands)

Aladdin and his trusty sidekick, the magical Genie, whisk you away on an exciting adventure set in the mystical city of Agrabah. With a flying carpet, an evil sorcerer, and a whole host of comedic characters, this pantomime brings an unforgettable blend of music, dance, and laughter. Ideal for families, Aladdin promises a magical escape with its high-energy performances and impressive special effects.

 Beauty and the Beast – Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury (Shropshire)

The enchanting tale of Beauty and the Beast comes to life at Theatre Severn. When Beauty agrees to stay at the Beast’s castle in order to save her father, she discovers that looks aren’t everything, and the true magic lies in kindness and love. Filled with hilarious characters, toe-tapping songs, and dazzling costumes, this show offers a heartwarming reminder of the importance of inner beauty.

 Jack and the Beanstalk – Derby Arena (

This giant-sized pantomime at Derby Arena is a must-see! Follow Jack as he climbs the beanstalk to defeat the evil giant and save his village. With larger-than-life characters, plenty of slapstick humour, and stunning visual effects, Jack and the Beanstalk is a family favourite that’s packed with thrills, spills, and laughs for all generations.

. Peter Pan – The Civic Hall, Walsall

Fly away to Neverland with Peter Pan, Wendy, Tinker Bell, and the mischievous Captain Hook in this high-flying panto at Walsall’s Civic Hall. Full of adventure, laughter, and a little bit of magic, Peter Pan takes you on a journey where you’ll never grow up and the fun never ends. Expect plenty of audience interaction, outrageous comedy, and lots of fairy dust for a truly unforgettable experience!

7. Sleeping Beauty – The Octagon Theatre, Bolton (Greater Manchester)

A fairy tale classic with a delightful twist! Sleeping Beauty at The Octagon Theatre is a spectacular mix of magic, fun, and romance. When the wicked fairy curses Princess Aurora to prick her finger and fall into an eternal sleep, only the love of a prince can break the spell. With comedic moments, catchy songs, and a fantastic cast, this panto is the perfect way to celebrate the season with loved ones.

8. The Nutcracker – Birmingham Hippodrome (West Midlands)

Synopsis: For those who prefer the elegance of ballet with a festive flair, The Nutcracker at the Birmingham Hippodrome is an enchanting choice. Tchaikovsky’s timeless score accompanies the magical journey of Clara as she travels to a world of snowflakes, dancing sugarplums, and an epic battle between the Nutcracker and the Mouse King. A beautiful and immersive experience, perfect for lovers of dance and classical music.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for traditional pantomimes that will have the whole family in stitches or magical Christmas shows to spark the festive spirit, Cheshire, Shropshire, Derbyshire, and the West Midlands have something for everyone this holiday season. Be sure to book your tickets early to ensure a magical and memorable Christmas experience!