While the Christmas decorations are packed away and the New Year's resolutions are being tested, London's theatre scene offers one final festive hurrah. A handful of the capital's popular pantomimes are defying the January blues and continuing their runs until Sunday, January 11, giving audiences a last chance to experience the magic, mayhem, and laughter.
Star-Studded Spectacles Still on Stage
The flagship production, 'Sleeping Beauty' at the London Palladium, remains the city's biggest panto draw. Headlined by comedy star Catherine Tate and featuring the perennial scene-stealer Julian Clary, alongside Jon Culshaw and Nigel Havers, the show has made headlines this season. Reports emerged of some audience members leaving over what they perceived as adult-oriented humour, a controversy that only underscores the production's edgy, traditional panto spirit. This A-list comedy affair continues its performances until the evening of January 11.
Meanwhile, Greenwich Theatre is keeping the family fun alive with its production of 'Peter Pan'. Penned by Anthony Spargo, a writer for the Horrible Histories stage shows, this pirate adventure stars Samuel Bailey as Peter, Nikita Johal as Wendy, and Olivia Williamson as Tinker Bell. Their mission is to thwart the dastardly Captain Hook, played by Spargo himself, in his quest for a powerful jewel. The show promises a night of puns and delight for children and the young at heart, closing on January 11.
Grown-Up Fairy Tales for 18+ Audiences
For those seeking a decidedly different panto experience, London's adult-only offerings are also in their final days. At the Charing Cross Theatre, the award-winning troupe He’s Behind You! presents 'Beauty & The Beast, A Horny Love Story'. This ridiculous retelling for over-18s transports the classic tale to the frosty Scottish village of Lickmanochers, following mummy's boy Bertie and a hairy aristocratic brute. Tickets are still available for its remaining shows until January 11.
Similarly, The Scala in King's Cross hosts the return of 'Sinderella', billed as London's naughtiest adult pantomime. Produced by The Entertainment Providers, the show follows Sinderella as she battles the Ugly Slappers and searches for Prince Donkey D*** in a riot of innuendo and raucous comedy. Its final performance is also scheduled for Sunday, January 11.
Your Final Curtain Call for Festive Fun
This weekend represents the absolute last opportunity to catch these professional pantomimes in London before the genre goes dormant until next December. From the star-powered spectacle at the Palladium to the family-friendly adventure in Greenwich and the risqué romps in the West End, there is a final flavour of festive fun for every taste. With tickets still available for some performances, it's a perfect way to bid a proper, laughter-filled farewell to the holiday season.
