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The West Midlands is alive with festive cheer this holiday season, thanks to a spectacular lineup of pantomimes and Christmas shows. Whether you're after traditional laughs, fairytale magic, or new twists on classic tales, here are the top performances to consider for an unforgettable Christmas outing.
The Best Pantomimes and Christmas Shows in the West Midlands
Peter Pan at Birmingham Hippodrome
Alison Hammond, Birmingham's own vibrant TV personality and entertainer, is set to join Peter Pan at Birmingham Hippodrome this season, alongside Matt Slack, who reprises his role as Smee. Alison brings her infectious energy and charm to the role of the "spirit of the ocean," adding another layer of fun and star power to this classic story.
With her comedic flair and local appeal, she’s bound to be a hit with both children and adults alike, enhancing the family-friendly adventure and playful humour that the Birmingham panto is known for. This year’s production promises the perfect mix of familiar faces, special effects, and surprises to make Peter Pan truly memorable.
Dates: Saturday 21st December 2024 – Sunday 2nd February 2025.
Running time: Unknown - last year's performance was approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes, with one interval.
Age guidance: 5+ (Under 3s cannot be admitted).
Price: Tickets from £19.50.
Location: South Side, Hippodrome Theatre, Hurst Street, Birmingham B5 4TB.
The Nutcracker 2024 at Birmingham Hippodrome
The Birmingham Hippodrome will once again host The Nutcracker, performed by the renowned Birmingham Royal Ballet. This iconic production, featuring Tchaikovsky’s famous score, has become a beloved tradition in Birmingham and offers an enchanting experience for all ages.
With lavish costumes, stunning sets, and the magical journey of Clara and her Nutcracker prince, audiences are transported to a winter wonderland filled with dancing snowflakes, enchanting characters, and unforgettable moments. The iconic "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" and other well-loved sequences make this performance an enduring favourite during the holiday season.
Dates: Friday 22nd November – Saturday 14 December 2024.
Running time: Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes including an interval.
Age guidance: 5+, no under 3s admitted.
Price: Tickets from £18.50.
Location: South Side, Hippodrome Theatre, Hurst Street, Birmingham B5 4TB.
Nativity! The Musical at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
Adapted from the beloved festive film, the heartwarming Nativity! The Musical follows Mr. Maddens, a teacher at Midlands-based St. Bernadette’s, as he prepares a chaotic nativity play with the help of his goofy assistant, Mr. Poppy. When a Hollywood producer is rumoured to attend, things spiral hilariously out of control!
Written by Debbie Isitt, creator of the hit film series, with music by Nicky Ager, this joyful production features favourite songs from the films along with new tunes to get you into the Christmas spirit. Don't miss this sparkling amateur production! Suitable for children 5 years plus.
Dates: Wednesday 13th November – 17th November 2024.
Running time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including a 20-minute interval).
Price: £85 for a family ticket, plus booking fee.
Age guidance: Recommended 5+. Children under 3 will not be admitted.
Location: Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1DE
Beauty and the Beast at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
This Christmas Wolverhampton Grand Theatre presents Beauty and the Beast for the first time, featuring Gladiator’s GIANT alongside panto favourites Tam Ryan and Ian Adams. Journey with Belle into a magical castle, where she must look beyond a fearsome beast and help him break the spell before the last petal falls.
Dates: Saturday 30th November 2024 to Sunday 5th January 2025.
Running time: TBC
Age guidance: None
Price: Family ticket from £99.
Location: Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1DE.
Elf The Musical at BP Pulse LIVE
Elf The Musical is a heartwarming adaptation of the beloved holiday film, following Buddy, a human raised as an elf, as he travels from the North Pole to New York City to discover his true identity and the spirit of Christmas.
With upbeat songs, vibrant choreography, and a touching story of love and friendship, this feel-good production is sure to leave you smiling and filled with holiday cheer.
Dates: Friday 20th - Sunday 22nd December 2024.
Running time: 2 hours and 25 minutes including interval.
Age guidance: The show is suitable for children aged 5 and over. Children aged 4 and under will not be permitted entry.
Price: From £30 per person.
Location: BP Pulse Live (formerly Resorts World Arena), Perimeter Road, Birmingham, B40 1NT.
The Wizard of Oz at The Old Rep Theatre
Experience Dorothy and Toto’s adventure in the enchanting land of Oz at The Old Rep Theatre. Will she find the brains, heart, and courage to save Oz and return to Kansas? This spectacular panto promises a fun-filled, unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Dates: Tuesday 26th November - Tuesday 31st December 2024.
Running time: Approximately 2 hours.
Age guidance: Unknown - previous years' performances were suitable for those aged 7 and above.
Price: From £14.50 per person.
Location: The Old Rep Theatre, Station Street, Birmingham, B5 4DY.
The Snowman™ with Live Orchestra at Birmingham Town Hall
The Snowman™ with Live Orchestra is coming to Birmingham Town Hall on December 15, 2024. This event offers a magical family experience with a screening of the beloved animated film The Snowman accompanied by a live orchestra.
As an extra bonus, each performance will include a second short film, also accompanied live by our orchestra. For 2024, there are two new films on offer, each being screened and accompanied by the live orchestra for the very first time. Choose between The Bear, the Piano, the Dog and the Fiddle, or The Snowman and The Snowdog.
Date: Sunday 15th December 2024
Running time: Performances will last approximately 60 minutes (80 minutes in venues with intervals).
Age guidance: Recommended age 3+.
Price: From £22 - £29.50.
Location: Birmingham Town Hall, Victoria Square, Birmingham, B3 3DQ.
Dick Whittington at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
Follow Dick and his cat as they seek their fortunes in this classic rags-to-riches story. The Belgrade Theatre is known for its high-energy performances and interactive elements that keep audiences engaged. Expect lots of laughs, local humour, and a heartwarming message that resonates with all ages.
Dates: Wednesday 20th November 2024 – Saturday 4th January 2025.
Running time: TBA
Age guidance: TBA
Price: From £18.
Location: Belgrade Theatre, Belgrade Square, Corporation Street, Coventry, CV1 1GS.
Father Christmas - The Belgrade Theatre
Father Christmas at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry is a delightful stage adaptation of Raymond Briggs' beloved book. Directed by Emma Earle, this production brings Santa's busy Christmas Eve preparations to life, offering a charming introduction to theatre for children under six and their families. Audiences can expect a magical experience with engaging storytelling, humor, and festive cheer.
Dates: Thursday 5th December 2024 - Sunday 29th December 2024.
Running Time: Approximately 50 minutes.
Age Guidance: Suitable for children under 6 and their families.
Price: Tickets vary based on seat selection (£12-£19).
Location: Belgrade Theatre, Belgrade Square, Coventry, CV1 1GS.
Jack and the Beanstalk at Lichfield Garrick Theatre
The Lichfield Garrick Theatre will host Jack and the Beanstalk as its 2024-2025 pantomime. The production promises a magical experience filled with laughter, dazzling costumes, and engaging performances, suitable for audiences of all ages.
Dates: Friday 22nd November 2024 – Sunday 12th January 12, 2025.
Running Time: Typically around 2-2.5 hours, including an interval.
Age Guidance: Family-friendly, suitable for children and adults alike. The theatre offers Babes in Arms tickets on certain family performances, which allows you to bring an infant under 18 months old
Ticket Prices: Standard tickets range from approximately £21 to £30.
Location: Lichfield Garrick Theatre, Castle Dyke, Lichfield, WS13 6HR.
Photo Credit: Lichfield Garrick Theatre
Jack and the Beanstalk at Talisman Theatre, Kenilworth
Embark on a magical adventure with Jack and the Beanstalk at the Talisman Theatre in Kenilworth. Join Jack, Dame Trott, and friends as they climb the beanstalk to the world of the giant, Blunderbore. Expect laughter, music, and plenty of surprises in this family-friendly pantomime, written by Stephen Duckham.
Dates: Friday 20th December 2024 - Saturday 4th January 2025.
Running time: TBA
Age guidance: Recommended age 3+.
Price: £16 per person.
Location: Talisman Theatre and Arts Centre, Barrow Road, Kenilworth, CV8 1EG.
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