9 Pantos and Christmas Performances in Newcastle, Gateshead and North East

Panto season is just around the corner, and there are plenty of opportunities to grab the whole family and head off to the theatre in Newcastle and the North East this Christmas.

Let us help you find the perfect panto or festive, family performance in Newcastle, Gateshead and the North East...

Get ready for a GIANT dose of festive fun this Christmas 2024 with the enchanting tale of Jack and the Beanstalk at Sunderland Empire. Emmerdale's  Matthew Wolfenden is playing the role of Jack alongside Wearside panto favourites, North East Queen of Comedy, the fabulous Miss Rory (Boulevard) as Dame Rorina Trott and the hilarious Tom Whalley as Silly Simon. Join them for the magic from Friday, 13 December 2024 to Sunday, 5 January 2025.

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From the team behind the spectacular Peter Pan, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast, Tyne Theatre & Opera House has once again joined forces with Enchanted Entertainment to bring Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs to the North East. Charlie Richmond and Lewis Denny return with Britain's Got Talent: The Champions winners Twist & Pulse as the Wicked Queen’s Henchmen, alongside Dancing on Ice champion Regan Gascoigne as the Prince and South Shields’ very own Grace Davison as Snow White! Packed with brilliant songs, dazzling dance routines, and lots of laughs, this is a fun-filled family treat you simply can’t miss. Taking place from Friday 6 December until Sunday 5 January. 

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Join Newcastle’s pantomime superstar Danny Adams, along with Theatre Royal favorites Clive Webb, Chris Hayward, and Joe McElderry, as they make a splash in a thrilling underwater adventure! Returning panto regulars Mick Potts, Wayne Smith, Kylie Ann Ford, and Christina Berriman Dawson are back, alongside newcomers Christian Maynard and Maggie Lynne, in a dazzling and magical theatrical extravaganza like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Danny stars as Danny Crabstix, best friend to Ariel, the bravest mermaid in King Triton’s kingdom. Together, they must take on the wicked Sea Witch, who has stolen Ariel’s voice in exchange for a chance to live among the humans above the ocean. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves! Taking place from Tuesday 26th November until Sunday 12th January. 

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Written by Danielle Slade in collaboration with primary school children from the North East, Blitzen on the Tyne is a delightful new play for kids, brought to you by Live Theatre. Follow Blitzen, the smallest reindeer who’s always been at the back of the pack. Tired of being overlooked, Blitzen sets off on a journey to find their true self, but a storm reroutes them to Newcastle! Will Blitzen discover their inner magic in the Toon? A fun-filled, heartwarming tale of friendship, self-discovery, and celebrating what makes you unique! Catch the show from Saturday 7 December until Sunday 22 December.

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Ding, dong! Scrooge is coming to Newcastle, meaner and greedier than ever—Bah Humbug! Can a magical midnight visit to Christmases past, present, and future help him discover the true spirit of the season? Join Northern Stage for A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens’ classic tale of ghosts, greed, and goodwill, filled with festive magic, music, and heartwarming moments for the whole family! Taking place from Saturday 30 November until Saturday 4 January. 

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After the huge success of their last panto, Playhouse at Whitley Bay invite you to their 2024 production of The New Adventures of Peter Pan. Get ready for another unforgettable family experience filled with magic, laughter, and adventure as you set sail for Neverland. Starring the legendary Steve Walls as the hilarious Smee and featuring your favorite Dame, the fabulous Patsy, this show promises to be bigger and better than ever. Come and discover why Playhouse pantos are truly the best—packed with incredible performances, dazzling sets, and plenty of festive fun for all ages! Catch the show from Friday 6th December until Saturday 4th January.

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Experience the magic of Christmas with a heartwarming performance by the Royal Northern Sinfonia, led by conductor Ellie Slorach and presenter Eleanor Mooney. Enjoy the timeless soundtrack of The Snowman and the playful musical story In the Swamp by the Light of the Moon, composed especially for this event. The relaxed performance will also feature a British Sign Language interpreter. Watch the show from Sunday 22nd December–Tuesday 24th December. 

Dame Bella’s Zoo is struggling, and she’s desperate for a stroke of luck. Her clumsy nephew Dennis stumbles upon Priscilla, a raggedy goose, while wandering Cleadon Hills. Priscilla seems like the perfect solution to their troubles, but the wicked Demon Gander is hot on her trail, determined to take her back to Goose Land. Thankfully, the magical spirit Twyleth is here to ensure a happy ending! Join Ray Spencer MBE as Dame Bella Ballcock, Glen Richard Townsend as Dennis, Alfie Joey as The Mayor and Georgina Whale Spencer as Priscilla the Goose. Taking place from Thursday 21st November until Sunday 5th January.

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Join People's Theatre down the rabbit hole this Christmas for an adventure with Alice and her whimsical friends! It’s the Queen of Hearts' un-birthday, but the mischievous Knave has a devious plan to steal all the jam tarts. With the help of the quirky Duchess, a cheeky Cheshire Cat, and the zaniest Hatter, can Alice keep her cool and save Wonderland? Don’t miss this festive journey full of fun and wonder! Taking place from Saturday 7th December until Saturday 14th December. 

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