Panto: What’s on this Christmas in the North East

Written by on 6th December 2022

With the year behind us, ’tis the season to get yourself down to your local theatres and enjoy the pantomime. 

Every Christmas we look forward to theatres coming alive with dames, villains and laughter. 

Local panto star, Andy Power-Tate, starring in the Consett Empire Theatre production of Aladdin, said: “It brings families together and is full of fun and laughter.” 

Andy will be starring as the Policeman with fellow comic Gareth Arthurs in a hilarious duo act certain to make you laugh. 

When asked what he is looking forward to most, Andy Power-Tate said: “we are hoping we get rave reviews, to make people happy and bring families together.”  

This panto isn’t the only one in the area though, with many productions set to bring wonder to the people of the North East. 

Here are some of the pantos showing this Christmas period. 

1. Aladdin – Sunderland Empire

Kicking off with a classic, Aladdin starring Hollyoaks’ Gary Lucy as Abanazar, Tom Whalley as Wishee Washee and Miss Rory as Widow Twanky is set to take stage December 9 to January 3. 

Dust off your magic carpets and shine those lamps as mischief and mayhem are sure to get everyone in the festive mood.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CjXj3j8ufTN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

2. Cinderella – Theatre Royal Newcastle-upon-Tyne

You are bound to have a ball of a time at Cinderella starring Oonagh Cox as Cinderella. She will be joined by panto legend Danny Adams as well as Clive Webb and Chris Hayward, with Joe McElderry reprising his role as the Fairy Godfather.

Make sure you don’t lose your glass slippers when at the theatre from November 29 to January 15. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ce06oyYqtnN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link 

3. Beauty and the Beast – Tyne Theatre and Opera House

Perhaps you fancy a tale as old as time. This magical production is starring comic Charlie Richmond and panto dame Lewis Denny. They are joined by Union J’s JJ Hamblett as the Prince and Sugababes’ Amelle Berrabah as the Good Fairy.

Clear your calendar and get ready to be their guest as Beauty and the Beast will show from December 9 to January 8. 

​​https://www.instagram.com/p/CkbDWG_oFOl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

4. Aladdin – Empire Consett

Of course we have to mention Empire Consett’s Aladdin, starring Tommy Cannon and Leah Bell with duo act Andy Power-Tate and Gareth Arthurs. 

When asked about the production, Andy Power-Tate said: “Has hidden wonders to entertain modern audiences.”

If this takes your fancy, Aladdin will be showing between December 1 to 31.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CjIHL0btIpZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

5. Sleeping Beauty – Durham Gala Theatre and Cinema

You may know this one from once upon a dream. Sleeping Beauty starring Chloe Jane Millar as Briar Rose and Benjamin Storey as Prince Chad of Middles-boroughly takes centre stage. 

A classic story with a modern North East twist, Sleeping Beauty is perfect for the whole family with shows between December 3 to January 5. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CleGZAUMmgM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

There is plenty to look forward to when it comes to panto. 

What’s your favourite pantomime? Have your say @SparkSunderland


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