Hampshire highlights: five festive pantomimes

Panto season has arrived – oh yes it has! – and with it a warm welcome of cheerful characters, sparkling stage sets, and joyful singalong music to brighten the winter days and nights. Join the fun of the great British pantomime pastime – here are five of our faves in Hampshire.

Peter Pan at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

Saturday 13 December 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026

Mayflower Theatre's panto always stars some incredible talent and this year's show of Peter Pan is no different, with Alexandra Burke flying into town as the villainous Captain Hook and Dr Ranj adding ethereal sparkle as The Magical Merman.

Join Peter Pan (played by Noah Harrison) and Tinker Bell (Carly Joan Furlong) on a swashbuckling adventure to Neverland.

With amazing special effects, stunning sets and beautiful costumes direct from The London Palladium, Peter Pan is sure to have the whole family Hooked!

Find out more about Peter Pan at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

Puss in Boots at Theatre Royal Winchester

Saturday 29 November 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026

The sparkling highlight in the Theatre Royal's Christmas calendar, panto season returns to Winchester from 29 November with a rollicking rendition of Puss in Boots. 

Always big on fun and laughs, expect plenty of audience participation and giggles from the PAW-some gags and joyous songs as you follow Colin and his faithful cat, Puss on this swashbuckling adventure....just purrr-fect!

Find out more about Puss in Boots at Theatre Royal Winchester

Aladdin at Kings Theatre, Southsea

Friday 5 December 2025 – Wednesday 31 December 2025

Fondly known as the Pompey Panto, the annual Christmas show at Kings Theatre in Southsea is always a firm festive seaside favourite.

For 2025, Kings Theatre welcomes back Eastenders' Shaun Williamson as Aba'Barry'nazer, along with Pompey Panto legend Jack Edwards as Widow Twankey, and Good Morning Britain's Rustie Lee as the Genie of the Lamp.

Find out more about Aladdin at Kings Theatre

Snow White at New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth

Friday 12 December 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026

Step into the enchanting world of laughter, wonder and family fun with the spectacular pantomime Snow White at Theatre Royal Portsmouth this festive season. 

With a boo-inducing Wicked Queen, a handsome Prince Charming, and the lovable Magnificent Seven played by talented local youngsters, this classic tale will be told in true pantomime style, complete with sparkling costumes, sensational sets, divine dancing, and toe-tapping live music.

Find out more about New Theatre Royal

Aladdin The Anvil, Basingstoke

Thursday 11 December 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2025

Join the panto party at The Anvil in Basingstoke this festive season, where Aladdin will also be showing as in a retold family extravaganza of entertainment.

Hop on the magic carpet and join childrens television stars James Mackenzie as the wickedly charming Abanazar, and Chris Pizzey as Wishee Washee for a night of traditional Christmas fun. 

Find out more about The Anvil

Find more Christmas events in Hampshire

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