Family Pantomimes this Christmas – and how to find them!

Stuck with choosing where to go for a family pantomime this Christmas?

Generally most popular in the United Kingdom, the pantomime was partially developed back in the 16th century from the Italian ‘Commedia dell’arte’, and has continued to grow and evolve from then onwards into the much loved event it is now. Today, the majority of theatres in the UK, including some of the biggest and most popular playhouses in England, run family pantomimes over the festive season which can make it incredibly difficult in choosing which one to see! So, to help you make your choices, here is our guide to some of the top shows being offered throughout Christmas 2013……

The Old Vic Theatre, Bristol

Following a recent £12 million redevelopment, the Bristol Old Vic is now one of the most modern theatres in the United Kingdom, boasting a hugely impressive stage just perfect for the journey through this underwater adventure…….

The Little Mermaid

Little Mermaid – Old Vic Theatre, Bristol

 

If you’re looking for a family show thats slightly different from the tradional panto, The Little Mermaid follows Hans Christian Anderson’s wonderful tale of a young mermaid forced to fight the evil sea witch to save her world and capture the heart of her handsome prince. A fabulous show filled with oceans of entertainment for the whole family to enjoy!

For performance dates, times and ticket prices click here. While you’re in Bristol, why not take in the surroundings and visit some of the fantastic attractions the city has to offer – Bristol Zoo Gardens, Museum and Art Gallery or The Hands On Science Centre to name a few; click here for the only guide you’ll need to find your way around Bristol this winter!

The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry

The Belgrade Theatre, built in 1958 following the destruction of the city of Coventry by World War 2, is today exceptionally proud to be one of the largest regional producing theatres in Britain. This year the Belgrade are hosting not one but two festive shows, one for families and one for adults only…

Jack And The Beanstalk

Iain Lauchlan as Dame Trott – Jack and The Beanstalk

For a fantastic family treat, Jack and the Beanstalk is full of all things magically pantomime and follows our much loved hero Jack, his mother Dame Trott, their cow, some beans, and a very large beanstalk! Written and directed by theatre and panto legend Iain Lauchlan, this is a must see this Christmas. Click here for further performance dates and times and ticket prices.

Oh No It Isn’t!

Adults Only – Oh No It Isn’t!

For an adults only night out, Oh No It Isn’t is the Belgrade Theatre’s hilarious fast paced murder mystery thriller perfect for getting you into the festive spirit. The show lasts just over an hour so once you’ve laughed your way through the performance there will still be time for a glass or two of mulled wine in the nearby bars and restaurants afterwards. You can find more information on performance dates and ticket availability by clicking here. To fully appreciate the beauty of the city of Coventry, take yourself off shopping, sightseeing, or just relaxing and watching the world go by. Our Coventry Street Atlas will make it easy as mince pie to find your way round….

The Brighton Dome, Brighton

Petit Mal Concrete Circus

The Brighton Dome began it’s time as the Prince Regents stables and riding house and has now developed to become ‘The South coast’s premier multi arts venue’, producing in excess of 600 events every year.

Petit Mal – Concrete Circus

This year, veering slightly away from the traditional pantomime theme but remaining jaw droppingly entertaining, the Brighton Dome is proud to present ‘Petit Mal – Concrete Circus’. This show takes you into an electric world where circus and acrobatics meet break dancing and hip hop in a spectacular display which saw this production awarded ‘Best Performance at the International Theatre and Street Arts Festival’ in Valladolid, TAC, 2013.

Click here to view performance dates and times and book your tickets. The city of Brighton and Hove is one of the UKs most vibrant and exciting places to be so don’t waste a minute whilst you’re there! Click here for your guide to help you make the most of your visit.

Now for the grand finale………….

Hopefully the information above has given you food for thought on which pantomime to go and see this year, so how about we give you the tickets to do so! The amazing teams at the Old Vic, Belgrade, and Brighton Dome have donated some tickets for the above performances especially for you, and all you have to do to win is answer the following question…….

‘How many different titles are there in the A-Z Adventure Atlas series?’

To submit your answer, click here – good luck!

Please ensure you include your name, contact details and preferred event when you enter.

NB. Competition closes midday 27th November. Ticket options available are:

Bristol Old Vic – Little Mermaid – Sat 7th Dec, 2pm, 1 x family ticket (2 adults 2 children)

Coventry Belgrade – Jack and the Beanstalk – Weds 18th Dec, 7pm, 1 x family ticket (2 adults 2 children)

Coventry Belgrade – Oh No It Isnt – Weds 11th Dec, 8pm, 2 x adult tickets

Brighton, Brighton Dome – Petit Mal, Thurs 17th Dec, 7.30pm, 2 x adult tickets

Dates are non negotiable, tickets are non exchangeable or refundable. Winners will be notified by email.

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