7 of the best pantomimes in Berkshire
PUBLISHED: 11:02 04 December 2018 | UPDATED: 11:03 04 December 2018
Dick Whittington (Savannah Photographic)
Savannah Photographic
The time for family fun, frolics and theatre chaos is upon us. Here’s our round-up of Berkshire’s best pantomimes for 2018
Dick Whittington and his Cat - 30 November - 5 January
Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park Arts Centre, Ringmead
Join Dick Whittington and his ever faithful companion on their journey down the cobbled streets of London as they go in search of fame and fortune. With a new script created by Joyce Branagh, and under the experienced direction of Adam Stafford, this is sure to make for a heart-warming performance. Audiences will be delighted to see Bracknell’s favourite dame, Brad Clapson, return to the stage this year, alongside the likes of Faye Allen and Matthew Houston. Tickets from £10 for school children, £17.50 for concessions and £19.50 standard.
Robin Hood - 15 November – 5 January
Watermill Theatre, Bagnor, Newbury
History’s most skilful archer and his band of merry men will be descending on the Watermill Theatre this winter. Watch the valiant Robin Hood carry out his mission of protecting the people of Sherwood Forest in this hilarious new adaption, written by critically acclaimed children’s author Laura Dockrill. This production is suitable for children aged four upwards, and with live music and the promise of endless laughter, it is sure to be the perfect festive treat. The theatre is housed in a converted Watermill, making for a spectacular setting. Tickets from £12 for concessions and from £23 for full price.
Jack and the Beanstalk - 30 November – 6 January
Corn Exchange, Newbury
Take a trip to the enchanted panto-land of Newbury Bottom, where you’ll find flying beans and magic galore. Follow the well-known story of Jack and his cow, but make sure you’re feeling energetic as this pantomime promises high-energy dance routines, sing-alongs and plenty of audience participation. It will see the likes of Harry Downes, Hannah Ponting and Eamonn Fleming take to the stage of the Corn Exchange, a flagship arts centre for the South East. Tickets from£20 for concessions and from £22.50 for full price.
Dick Whittington - 23 November - 6 January
Theatre Royal, Windsor
Dick Whittington will also be making an appearance in Windsor this season, promising audiences fun and mayhem. This production will see Steven Blakeley will resume his role as the dame for the 10th time, whilst the production as a whole will be extra-special, since it will commemorate 80 years of pantomime at the Theatre Royal. Tickets from £75 for a family.
Aladdin - 8 December - 6 January
The Hexagon, Reading
Presented by Imagine Theatre and The Hexagon, this pantomime will chart the much-loved story of an adventurous hero, a scheming baddie and an all-important magical genie. Children’s TV mega-star Justin Fletcher will be taking on the role of Aladdin, whilst Sophie Ayres will feature as the Princess, and the award-winning panto dame Paul Morse will don a frock as Widow Twankey. Spectacular scenery, special effects and slapstick comedy will be aplenty. Tickets from £19.50 for concessions or £24.50 for full price, or from £14 on the opening weekend.
The Fir Tree - 20 November - 30 December
Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead
Written by tove Jansson, and from the popular Tales in Moominvalley, this heart-warming performance follows the story of the Moomin family as their hibernation is disturbed by the arrival of Christmas. Presented by Norden Farm, the Ding Foundation, Bernadette Russell and Steve Tiplady, plus featuring live puppetry and music, this pantomime is sure to delight young theatre-goers. Tickets £13.50 and from £11.50 for under-16s.
Cinderella - 22-30 December
Pearce Suite Theatre, Magnet Leisure Centre, Maidenhead
Join Cinderella on her journey from rags to riches as she overcomes her jealous stepsisters to win the hand of her prince. This performance promises laugh-out-loud comedy, silliness and, of course, plenty of audience participation. It follows on from the success of last year’s production of Aladdin, and will see the Pearce Suite Theatre be transformed into an enchanted, magical land. Tickets £17 or £15 for under-16s.
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