It’s just a few weeks to Christmas, and it’s the time theatreland ramps up its festive offerings with Santa, baubles, dames, tinsel and just a bit of filth running through the schedules.
I asked a group of PRs to highlight their shows for me to assemble this list, and added a few more I will be attending or would like to bring to your attention!
Traditional panto
Beauty and the Beast (Bridge House Theatre)
“In the quaint French village of Pénge-su-mer, the beautiful and headstrong Belle dreams of a life beyond the everyday. But high above the village, in the shadowy Great North Wood, the vain and arrogant Prince Philipe Phacochère rules from his hilltop castle with an iron fist, making life miserable for all. When he cheats his way to victory in the annual thumb-war championship, he earns the wrath of a wicked fairy — and a dreadful curse. Transformed into a hideous beast, the Prince must now discover the true meaning of love… or remain a monster forever.
Written by our Artistic Director Luke Adamson, this brand-new adaptation draws inspiration from the original French fairy tale — with a nod to the beloved Disney classic — and gives it a bold, inventive twist in true Bridge House style. Expect sharp wit, unexpected turns, and high-energy fun for all ages.”
- 13-30 Dec
Cinderella (Stanley Arts)
“Cinderella dreams of opening a sustainable fashion boutique, but stuck under the thumb of her money-obsessed stepmother and self-obsessed stepsister, things aren’t exactly on trend. When the charming Duke Rizz throws a ball at the Crystal Palace, and a forgetful fairy godmother gets involved, Cinderella grabs her chance to stitch a new future.
Packed with sparkle, sass, classic panto routines (oh yes there are!), and a whole lot of Croydon charm this fresh take on the beloved story celebrates kindness, creativity, and the power of being yourself.
Book now for Cinderella, where From Rags to Riches is just the beginning…”
- 13-28 Dec
Jack and the Beanstalk (Lyric Hammersmith)
“Join our loveable hero Jack as he embarks on a mission of gigantic proportions, way into the clouds, to defeat his newfound nemesis and save the people of Hammersmith.
It’s Jack and Jill’s first day at Fleshcreep Academy, the strictest school in Hammersmith, and there’s trouble brewing. Not only is their mum the chaotic new dinner lady but the headteacher has pupils on a tight leash: just three strikes and it’s off to the giant, whatever that means. This place could do with some magic – but where is Fairy Godfather hiding? Get ready for the climb of the lifetime as Jack reaches new heights to bring joy back to West London!
The dynamic duo from last year’s smash-hit sellout Aladdin, writer Sonia Jalaly and director Nicholai La Barrie will be showing no mercy as they present to you a show-stopping medley of musical bangers, jaw-dropping magic and whip-smart comedy: all the festive fun you know and love… oh yes they will!”
- Now showing – to 4 Jan 2026
Mama Goose (Stratford East)
“Join local lass Mama Goose and her magical golden-egg-laying goose in Stratford this holiday season!
Will Mama Goose be able to resist the temptations of fame and fortune, or will she learn that the best things in life are free?
Stratford East pantos are famous for tearing up the rulebook and telling classic stories with a special East London twist. Round up your friends and family and join us for a reimagined telling of the fairy tale classic.”
- Now showing – to 3 Jan 2026
Mother Goose (Arts Centre Hounslow)
“his Christmas, The Arts Centre, Hounslow presents Mother Goose, a hilarious, heartwarming pantomime packed with music, magic and mayhem for the whole family.
From the award-nominated team behind a decade of your favourite pantos comes a sparkling new production following the tale of a goose that lays golden eggs and a woman tempted by fame and fortune. With previous shows nominated at The Pantomime Awards for Best Ensemble and Best Small Venue, and described by audiences as “the best panto I’ve ever seen” and “hilarious for both adults and kids,” this year’s production promises festive fun you won’t want to miss.
Performances sell out every year, so book early to join the magic at West London’s most joyful Christmas tradition.”
- 1-30 Dec
Robin Hood (New Wimbledon Theatre)
“Get ready for an adventure like no other as street dance sensations Ashley Banjo and Diversity take over Sherwood Forest this Christmas, joined by comedian and magician Pete Firman plus an outstanding cast led by panto villain Steve Arnott and musical theatre stars Lauren Hampton and Amelia Walker.
Expect a spectacle to remember, with stunning sets and costumes, rip-roaring comedy and incredible special effects. Robin Hood will have you merrily riding off into the night.”
- 6 Dec – 4 Jan 2026
Family-friendly shows
Elf (Aldwych Theatre)
“Based on the beloved film, Elf is the funny and charming tale of Buddy, who mistakenly crawled into Santa’s bag as a baby and was raised as an elf! Way too tall and not so great at his job, Buddy is the North Pole’s biggest misfit… and knows he’ll never belong. When Santa tells him the truth, Buddy heads to New York to find his birth father (who turns out to be quite high on the naughty list). After causing some merry mayhem in Manhattan, Buddy finally discovers the gift of family and falls in love. And when Santa’s sleigh crashes in Central Park, it’s Buddy who finds a way to save Christmas forever!”
- Now showing – to 3 Jan 2026
Father Christmas Needs a Wee! (Arts Theatre)
“At every house Father Christmas eats and drinks the tasty treats that have been left for him. But when he reaches number ten he realises that he’s forgotten to do something rather important and he really, really, really needs a WEE!
TaleGate Theatre Productions hit the perfect combination of witty humour, fantastic music and the extra sparkle for which they have become known in this fabulously funny and brilliantly bouncy musical adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s much loved book.”
- 6-7,13-14,20-24 Dec (mornings)
How Does Santa Go Down The Chimney (Unicorn Theatre)
“Ever wondered how Santa goes down the chimney?
Feet first? Head first? On a zip wire?
What if he gets stuck? What if there’s a fire at the bottom? What if there’s no chimney at all?
Can Santa post himself in a parcel? Come in disguise as the Christmas turkey? Or step out of a festive movie on TV?
Join us for a thrilling fusion of physical comedy, live music and anarchic fun!”
- Now showing – to 3 Jan 2026
The Nutcracker by Little Bulb (St Martin’s Theatre)
“Little Bulb invites you to experience an audacious reimagining of The Nutcracker as a fun-filled, magical, musical quest… with not a tutu in sight!
When two squabbling siblings receive a mysterious nutcracker from their flamboyant Aunt on Christmas Eve, it sets them off on a fantastical journey into ‘The Mousey Realm’. Can they put their differences aside and stop the evil, many-headed Mouse King before he ruins Christmas? Only time will tell…
This bold and brilliantly silly tale is brought to ingenious theatrical life with clever cardboard creations, comic characters and a chorus of cheeky musical mice. It’s crammed full of action, laugh-out-loud comedy, and a sleigh-load of feelgood festive bangers that’ll have you dancing in your seat – with just the right amount of cheese.”
- 10,12-15,17-18,20-24,26-30 Dec,1-4 Jan (daytime)
Operation Ouch – Quest for the Jurassic Fart! (Southbank Centre)
“Following four sell-out Australian tours and two smash-hit seasons in London’s West End, Dr Chris and Dr Xand are back in the UK with a roarsome show packed with all-new crazy experiments.
Travel back to the age of the dinosaurs as the doctors make you laugh-a-saurus and gross you out all at the same time through the fascinating world of science.”
- 22 Dec – 2 Jan 2026
Red (Chickenshed)
“In the hush of a winter forest, secrets stir – and something unexpected waits just beyond the trees…
Red is the story of, well… a girl named Red!
When she and her siblings are sent from their cosy city life to stay with their grandmother up in the snowy mountains, they encounter many strange things along the way. A jittery woodsman, stuck up socialites, mountain spirits and a village living in fear of a legendary wolf who’s been terrorising them for years.
As whispers grow louder and the lines between friend and foe begin to blur, Red and her siblings must uncover the truth behind the fear.
Red is a magical twist on the tale of Little Red Riding Hood – where the familiar turns unexpected, and nothing is quite what it seems.”
- Now showing – to 10 Jan 2026
The Snowflake (Polka Theatre)
“Wherever the wind takes us, we all find a place to land…
Based on the timeless Christmas story by Benji Davies, The Snowflake tells the tale of a snowflake, a little girl and her Pappie, who are all longing for their own special place in the world.
Unwrap the magic at Polka this festive season and find out how everyone can find their way to shine like a star!
Our beloved festive production offers the perfect introduction to theatre for younger audiences.”
- 29 Nov – 25 Jan 2026
Circus / cabaret
Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular (Empress Museum)
“Come Alive!‘ is the brand new circus spectacular now playing in London’s Earls Court.
Inspired by the 20th Century Fox Motion Picture The Greatest Showman.”
- now booking into 2026
Little Miss Christmas (Southwark Playhouse Borough)
“Following an acclaimed 2024 run at Alphabetti Theatre, Little Miss Christmas is jingling all the way to Southwark Playhouse for its London premiere. Prepare to be swept away by a madcap beauty pageant with a festive twist on all the classic categories: Interview, Swimsuit, Evening Wear, Talent, and of course, Coronation.
Patti Boo Rae is a shoo-in for the coveted Candy Cane Crown, but this year she has some unexpected competition! With a new challenger from London’s iconic cabaret scene every night, Patti will have to pull out all the stops to defend her title: we’re talking live vocals, lip syncs, singalongs, audience interaction, quick changes, synchronized swimming!
And if all else fails, she might just have to fight dirty…”
- 10 Dec – 3 Jan 2026
Revel Puck Circus – Winter Festival (Walthamstow Central)
“Situated in the heart of Walthamstow village on the town square (behind Walthamstow Central station) The Pucks are bringing an all new venue, a pop-up tap-room and a heated covered garden from Signature Brew, a festive market in partnership with Waltham Forest Council, and training and performance slots for the local community, plus two all new productions!
The alternative festive experience – the Pucks are premiering Fête du Puck a foot-stampingly audacious celebration of the past, present, and future of circus with an international cast of exceptional talent!
Following a smash hit run at the Edinburgh Fringe, The Ugly Duckling – a circus story is making a glorious return to Walthamstow! For younger audiences aged 2-7, this reimagining of the classic coming-of-age tale with an acrobatic twist celebrates difference and finding your tribe.”
- 4 Dec – 4 Jan 2026
Sabrage (Lafayette, King’s Cross)
“Sabrage is not just a show – it’s an extravagant evening of intoxicating allure and riotous edge-of-your-seat entertainment, featuring the finest circus and acrobatic talent from across the globe. Expect high-octane spectacle, titillating humour, vintage glamour – and more than a few surprises.”
- Now showing – booking into 2026
Winter Funland (The Grand Hall, Olympia)
“Winter Funland London is a great opportunity to wear your Christmas jumpers and get into the festive spirit….without worrying about the weather! Expect plenty of Christmas magic, with all the fun of the fair and a spectacular circus show. They’ll be lots of smiles on the ice rink too, whether you’re gliding along like a pro or wobbling along with the help of one of our penguins! Watch out for the mischievous elves and other characters who’ll be popping up around the event to pose for photos and help you make some special memories.”
- 13 Dec – 4 Jan 2026
Zippo’s Christmas Circus (Hyde Park Winter Wonderland)
“Zippo’s Christmas Circus is back at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland with a brand new international cast of circus superstars including amazing acrobats, dazzling trapeze performers and lovable comic characters.
Guaranteed to get all the family into a festive mood, the 45-minute spectacular is a real Christmas cracker of a show, full of fun and thrills! Watch out for the surprise appearance of a larger-than-life Father Christmas and his lovable inflatable polar bears.”
- Now showing to 1 Jan 2026
Adult shows
Beauty and the Beast: A Horny Love Story (Charing Cross Theatre)
“He might be a beast but his castle is to die for!
Award-winning adult-panto queens He’s Behind You! return with a ridiculous new version of the 18th greatest love story ever told. Be our guest in the frostbitten Scottish village of Lickmanochers where inexperienced mummy’s boy Bertie becomes the prisoner of an aristocratic brute with lustrous body hair and a castle that’s just begging for a makeover. As the snow falls, it’s not just the tension that rises…”
- Now showing to 11 Jan 2026
Growled – Beauty and the Beast Continues (Royal Vauxhall Tavern)
“Written by Paul Joseph and Tim Benzie and directed by panto legend Tim McArthur, Growled is the hilarious tale of life for Belle and her Prince once the classic story ends and they face the reality of ‘happy ever after’. This magical story is brought to life by a stunning cast, packed with hit songs and more jokes (and clocks) per minute than any other panto. Don’t miss out.
The RVT panto is one of the highlights of the year at London’s most iconic LGBTQ+ cabaret and performance venue, with a long history at the Vauxhall venue, in recent years, the panto has become more successful than ever, with most shows selling out and this year we have added more dates than ever before.”
- 25,28 Nov, 13,15,28 Dec ,3 Jan 2026
Jack and his Giant Stalk (The Star Inn, Guildford)
“Embark on an uproarious adventure with Jack and his Giant Stalk, the latest masterpiece from the genius (filthy) minds of the Guildford Fringe team! Brace yourselves for an hour of non-stop hilarity with no dull moments, as this rib-tickling spectacle takes centre stage.
If you’ve been a fan of our sell-out Adult Pantos for the past 12 years, you won’t want to miss this sensational extravaganza! Indulge in naughty, smutty, and downright silly humor that’s sure to leave you in stitches.”
- Now showing – to 10 Jan 2026
Lovers Actually (The Other Palace Studio)
“If you want belly laughs and to be wooed by some cardboard cue cards, then this hilarious new musical parody is one to put down on your Christmas list! Following last year’s sold-out hit, Homo Alone, The Other Palace is thrilled to present Lovers Actually written by Jodie Prenger and Neil Hurst.
All I want for Christmas is… filthy fun, fabulous festivities, and enough naughty cheer to make Santa blush! This Christmas, we are serving up everything you could actually want – and then some, with this cheeky musical parody of Love Actually!”
- Now showing – to 4 Jan 2026
Sinderella (Scala)
“Get ready for raucous laughter, innuendos, outwinds and unexpected encounters that will have you begging for more!
Join Cinderella , Prince Donkey Dick , Buttons and the two Ugly Slappers for a night of pantomime frolics and more!!!
Sinderella has no money, no man and none of the glamorous life she claims to be living. Until one day, she meets Prince Donkey Dick in the woods who invites her to his ball …. But who has the biggest balls? Will this be her happy ending or will she lose more than her shoe?”
- 19 Dec-11 Jan 2026
Wicked Witches (Pleasance Main House)
“Gather your friends and frenemies for an outrageous drag-cabaret mash-up of Wicked and The Wizard of Oz. It’s our traditional panto, with one big twist: this version is strictly for grown-ups!
Twenty years after that fateful trip over the rainbow, Dor is dragged back to the Borough of Oz-lington by a surprise snowstorm, where they reunite with the OG squad (featuring a glow-up Tin 2.0) to try and save Christmas.
It’s the classic characters you know and love… but like you’ve never seen them before!”
- Now showing – to 22 Dec
Festive favourites
A Christmas Carol (The Old Vic)
“Matthew Warchus’ big-hearted, smash hit production of Charles Dickens’ immortal classic returns to The Old Vic, joyously adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, His Dark Materials) and starring Paul Hilton (The Inheritance, Lady Macbeth, Slow Horses) as Ebenezer Scrooge.
A Christmas Carol fills the auditorium to the brim with mince pies, music and merriment. A unique staging immerses the audience in London’s longest running adaptation of this beloved festive favourite.”
- Now showing – to 10 Jan 2026
A Christmas Carol (Theatre at the Tabard)
“Inspired by Dickens’ first reading and performance of A Christmas Carol in December 1853, Clive Francis re-enacts this festive masterpiece with words penned by Dickens, while playing every notable character from the original, haunting story.”
- 20-24 Dec
The Christmas Thing (Seven Dials Playhouse)
“Mr. Thing’s Christmas special returns, “broadcasting” live from Seven Dials Playhouse!
Become part of the studio audience as Tom, Owen and a crew of Things pull together a festive TV show live on stage with surprise guests, Christmas games, video sketches, live music, remote controlled cameras, musical robots, technical hi-jinx and much more.
Welcome to the multimedia mayhem that is The Christmas Thing.”
- 2-20 Dec
The Magic of Christmas (Brick Lane Music Hall)
“The Magic of Christmas is designed purely with Christmas in mind and performed in customary music hall style with a show full of celebration and laughter. The venue will be decorated and transformed into a magical wonderland of light and cheer – it’s sure to be the sparkliest show in town.
Music Hall audiences came from all classes and persuasions, were raucous and rowdy, joining in with the
performances, cheering on their favourites and booing off anyone they didn’t like. In its heyday, there were
more than three hundred music halls in London alone, but now Brick Lane Music Hall keeps the tradition alive in their unique venue situated near the Royal Docks in East London.”
- Now showing – to 19 Dec
Ballet and dance
Adam Garcia’s Emerald Storm (Emerald Theatre)
“Emerald Storm is a dance show co-created by Adam Garcia that blends traditional Irish step dancing with modern tap. It features high-octane choreography, live music, and powerhouse vocal performances”
- Now showing – to 14 Dec
Ebony Scrooge (Sadler’s Wells East)
“Meet Ebony, the formidable mastermind behind a renowned fashion empire. Everyone’s nightmare boss, she’s cancelled Christmas for her landmark fashion show.
Surrounded by wealth, style and success, she’s about to embark on a transformative journey accompanied by three mystical visitors. As she rediscovers her Caribbean roots, will Ebony discover the true meaning of happiness?
This bright and bold adaptation of A Christmas Carol is brought to life by east London born and raised choreographer Dannielle ‘Rhimes’ Lecointe, Associate Artistic Director of ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company. With original music from Michael ‘Mikey J’ Asante, you’ll be grooving the whole way home.”
- 26 Nov – 4 Jan 2026
The Magic Flute by Protein (The Place)
“Join the fun-loving bird-catcher Papageno and the lost Prince Tamino as they set out to rescue Princess Pamina, uncovering the truth about the mysterious Queen of the Night and the powerful leader Sarastro.
The Magic Flute is brought to life with Protein’s playful mix of dancing, storytelling, singing and stunning visuals, with set and costume design by Dick Bird, rearranged Mozart and new music by composer Frank Moon, creative captions/video design by Douglas Baker and lighting by Rachel Shipp.”
- 17-24 Dec
The Nutcracker (Royal Opera and Ballet)
“The magician Herr Drosselmeyer is on a quest to save his nephew. Hans-Peter has been transformed into a Nutcracker doll by the wicked Queen of the Mice; the only way to break the spell is for the Nutcracker to defeat the Mouse King and find a girl to love and care for him. A flicker of hope comes to Drosselmeyer in the form of the young Clara, whom Drosselmeyer meets at the Stahlbaum’s Christmas party. With a swish of Drosselmeyer’s cape and a little bit of magic, a cosy festive gathering turns into a marvellous adventure.”
- Now showing – to 5 Jan 2026
Experiences / immersive
Fireside Tales (Punchdrunk at Wembley Park)
“As the nights grow colder and the dark draws near, a light glows in the distance. It’s inviting you to take part in the ritual of the fire season.
Fireside Tales is a new immersive experience for children aged 7-11 and their grown-ups. Step into a magical world where stories flicker like flames and imagination keeps them burning bright. For thousands of years, we have gathered to share tales around the fire. But this tradition is fading, and many stories are at risk of being lost. When a new story arrives — faint as an ember, not brave enough to be told — it needs your help to be heard.
Developed with schools, this interactive adventure encourages you to draw, write and share your own stories. Without your care, the fire might fade, be forgotten or take on a dangerous new form.”
- 6 Dec – 4 Jan 2026
The Great Christmas Feast (The Lost Estate)
“London’s iconic Christmas experience returns after seven sold out years.
Travel back in time to Charles Dickens’ house and witness the moment ‘A Christmas Carol’ was born. A night of Victorian feasting, live music, and spellbinding theatre awaits…”
- Now showing – to 4 Jan 2026
Humbug (The Vaults Theatre)
“This year, you’re invited to the holy grail of Christmas parties. A raucous 3-hour experience of Christmas cabaret, sing alongs, immersive performances and unexpected surprises. Hosted by the merriest man on earth. Santa Claus himself.”
- Now showing – to 31 Dec
A Merry Misrule (Battersea Arts Centre)
“After last year’s five-star festive performance The Holly King and The Oak King, award-winning immersive arts creators Wild Rumpus return to Battersea Arts Centre with a new family adventure.
Across Europe, mischievous Yuletide traditions have run riot and it’s up to YOU to save Winter from chaos. Guided by the rousing ‘Revolutionary Rabbit’, wander through enchanted lands and meet characters intent on causing disruption to the most wonderful time of the year.
Can you join the mission to bring harmony back to the holidays? “
- 29 Nov – 24 Dec
The Nutcracker Noir (Protein Studio Shoreditch)
“Experience The Nutcracker like never before in a spellbinding reimagining of Tchaikovsky’s classic with an inspired, seductive twist. Experience immersive worlds filled with hidden surprises, then take your seat at a theatrical dining banquet where dazzling characters bring the adventure to life. This isn’t just a festive night out – it’s an unforgettable immersive Nutcracker experience blending dance, music, food into one truly remarkable Christmas treat for London!”
- 25 Nov – 21 Dec (most days)
Phantom Peak’s Wintermas (Canada Water)
“Wintermas brings magical snow to the Old Town of Phantom Peak. Father Platmas will return, ready to grant your Wintermas wish. Get ready for a festive celebration like no other. Careful what you wish for, previous wishes have led to ‘happy little accidents’ and the creation of immortal talking animals.”
- Now showing – to 18 Jan (most days)
Wundrful World of Christmas (Borough Yards)
“AWundrful World of Christmas is a magical mixed reality walk through experience perfect for 3 to 8 years olds and their grown-ups. You will be guided by a cast of animated characters combined with real-life actors and interactive theatrical set and scenery in an unforgettable Christmas adventure.”
- Now showing – to 8 Dec