It's November, Christmas is fast approaching, and festivities are transitioning from spooky to sparkly, so it’s time to start thinking of the ways you can wrap yourself up in this year’s winter wonderland.
The holidays are never complete without a pantomime or two, which is why Manchester theatres are overflowing with some hilariously entertaining showcases this December.
Here are some of the most unmissable pantos and festive shows coming this winter.
5. Peter Pan at Stockport Plaza
Put the boring winter nights ‘behind you’ and feel like a kid again with a magical trip to Neverland this Christmas. Spanning from December 8 – January 7, this production is pulling out all the stops to give you an immersive experience, with their amazing backdrops and brilliant cast. Ex Coronation Street killer Brian Capron is revisiting his villainous routes for his take on everyone’s most hated pirate, Captain Hook.
6. ELF the musical at the AO Arena
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas and this seasonal cult classic is exactly what you need to get you in the Christmas spirit. The blockbuster hit will take to the stage on December 23 and 24 to present an audience with a night they will never forget. Complete with a huge LED screen for film backdrops, a moving stage to ensure there are no bad seats in the house, and loads of fun special effects, this show is the ultimate Christmas celebration. Aerial cirque stars and an indoor snowstorm are just a couple of the wonderful things you can expect from this unmissable show, packed full of West End stars like Steven Serlin. Photo: cont
7. Sleeping Beauty at the Guide Bridge Theatre
Don’t be fooled, you will be wide awake for this lively showing of this classic tale which is bound to make you feel all warm inside just in time for a white Christmas. Princess Aurora is cursed by the evil fairy Carabosse, who was not invited to her christening and now Nurse Nelly and Muddles are on a mission to save her. Find out how the castle copes and a prince enters the mix from November 29 – December 10 in this brilliant production by Barry Crossley. | Google
8. The Muppets Christmas Carol and live orchestra at the Bridgewater Hall
The beloved Disney musical comedy is coming to Manchester in a live showing alongside an orchestra which will be performing it’s music score by Miles Goodman. Watch along as Gonzo walks you through Scrooge’s three ghostly visits as he slowly starts to learn the error of his ways and understand the magic of Christmas with the help of some very famous puppets. The orchestra has been described as a hand-picked ensemble of star performers, so as well as a guaranteed laugh, you’ll be able to experience some of the best musicians in the business. You can catch this showing at 7pm on December 20. Photo: Submitted