Take your seats: festive shows and pantos!
11th November 2026
The All New Adventures of Peter Pan, Norwich Theatre Royal © Andi Sapey, all rights reserved
Hip, hip hooray! It’s curtain up for panto season and fun for all the family. These productions are a perfect way to introduce children to the joy of live theatre, says Sarah Hardy
Thursford Christmas Spectacular
Now in its 49th year, this three-hour extravaganza is basically a West End show in the depths of the countryside, with fab-u-lous singing and dancing routines, plus comedy and four new speciality acts, including roller skaters. More than 120 performers take part, there’s a live orchestra and the costumes are simply amazing. And with comedian and ventriloquist Steve Hewlett returning as compere, you can expect a slick, top notch show. Over 8s please.
When: 10 November to 23 December
The All New Adventures of Peter Pan, Norwich Theatre Royal
We’re off to Neverland with Peter, Wendy, Tinker Bell and Captain Hook as Peter Pan takes to the skies. With Joe Tracini back as both one of the stars (Smee) and writer, you can expect a panto with a big heart. He’s joined by Casualty’s Milo Clarke as Peter, Quinn Patrick as Tink and Karl Queensborough (The Crown and last year’s Sleeping Beauty) as Captain Hook. It’s billed as the region’s biggest and brightest panto so expect outrageous gowns, great songs and lots of laughter.
When: 5 December to 3 January
Sleeping Beauty, Sheringham Little Theatre
There’s a modern slant to this year’s panto, with characters renamed to fit in with 21st century children. Be prepared to meet King Rizz, Queen Slay, Prince Sigma, and a good fairy called Skibidi! The role of Beauty is played by newcomer Annabel Partington-Smith and look out for teams of eight- to 18-year-old youth chorus members. The show has been written by Sheringham’s Mr Panto, Nick Earnshaw.
When: 12 December to 3 January
www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com
Cromer Pier Christmas Show
Legendary Norfolk performer Olly Day brings his signature style and wit as he hosts a rich blend of singing, dancing, comedy and speciality acts to produce a multi-generational variety show. High tech visuals feature an eight-metre video wall and dynamic lighting, and there’s always a good few ad libs, too.
When: 14 November to 28 December
Sleeping Beauty, King’s Lynn Corn Exchange
A thoroughly traditional panto is promised, with the ever-popular Scott Cripps returning as he plays Chester the Jester. He’s joined by Alex Scott Fairley as Carabosse, Abi Fullard as Aurora, Paul Murdock as Prince Valiant and John Macneil as King Clarence. There’s masses of audience participation, local gags, plenty of toe-tapping tunes and slapstick comedy in this high-octane show!
When: 8 December to 3 January
www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
Cinderella, Princess Theatre, Hunstanton
Lots of audience participation is promised at this family favourite which follows Cinders on her rags to riches tale. Alongside awesome special effects, energetic dance routines, and show-stopping songs, there are plenty of giggles with lots of local references! Sam Littlewood returns for his fourth year in the theatre’s panto, this time as Buttons, and Josh Rattie also returns as one of the Ugly Sisters, with Michael Diamond as the other. Lucy Galloway is Cinderella and Tyler Sargent is Prince Charming.
When: 5 December to 3 January
Cinderella, Westacre Theatre
Wallow in this lovely panto which promises all your favourite characters but a slightly more exciting ending – we say no more! It is written by Philip Wilson, with music by Jason Carr, and is suitable for all ages.
When: 18 to 24 December
Check individual websites for timings and ticket prices
