Pantomimes to Visit in Kent this Christmas!


*updated for 2018

Pantomime season is upon us! 

Before you shout at your computer screen, phone or tablet “oh no it isn’t!”, have you had a look at some of the pantomimes going on in Kent this Christmas? Christmas is fast approaching and during the countdown it just wouldn’t be the same without attending a panto in Kent, would it? So if you’re looking for a place to take the family or even your school class for a festive treat then look no further, here is a list of pantomimes across Kent for you to choose from:

1) Cinderella at The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury - 23rd Nov 2018 to 6th Jan 2019

The Marlowe Theatre, which reopened in 2011 in a stunning new purpose-built venue, is the perfect place to see a panto. With a star-studded cast, Cinderella will be making an entrance into the Marlowe this year, in what is regarded as one of the best pantomimes in the country. Will Cinderella ever make it to the ball, and realise her dream of becoming a princess?

2) Aladdin at the Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone - 1st Dec to 31st Dec 2018 

This year, Aladdin will be flying into The Hazlitt Theatre, situated in the heart of Kent. Starring Richard Blackwood (formerly in EastEnders) as the Genie, you will be immersed into the world of Aladdin, who after falling in love with a Princess, fights to keep his lamp against the evil Abanazar. 

3) Dick Whittington at the Central Theatre, Chatham - 7th Dec to 31st Dec 2018 

Another theatre with character, the Central Theatre in Chatham, originally a Methodist Hall built in the early 20th century, offers a spectacular panto experience! Occupying the theatre this year is Dick Whittington and his cat. Starring Ray Quinn (of Brookside and X Factor fame), Dick Whittington and his feline friend trek to London to find fame and fortune, and unexpectedly meet an evil King rat! 

4) Peter Pan at The Woodville, Gravesend - 7th Dec 2018 to 1st Jan 2019

There is always much going on at The Woodville in Gravesend, with the Christmas Pantomime always being a major highlight. Peter Pan will be flying into the theatre this year, fighting against the vicious Captain Hook to help provide a loving home to the Lost Boys. With fabulous scenery, special effects and laughter, this is a pantomime with so much fun, you’ll question whether you want to grow up!   

5) Sleeping Beauty at Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells- 7th Dec to 2nd Jan 2019

Just around the corner from Tunbridge Wells train station is the recently refurbished Assembly Hall Theatre. Starring Claire Sweeney (from Brookside and Loose Women) and Derek Moran (of Channel 5’s Milkshake), this pantomime promises to be packed with smash-hit songs, stunning sets, spectacular costumes, and magical special effects. Cursed by a wicked queen, will Sleeping Beauty ever be awakened by true love’s kiss? 

6) Jack and the Beanstalk at the Theatre Royal, Margate - 8th Dec 2018 to 2nd Jan 2019

There is no theatre quite like the historic Theatre Royal in Margate. Dating from the 18th century, the extravagantly decorated theatre makes you feel like you are being transported to a world of fantasy! This year, you will be transported up into the clouds with Jack, whose magical beans lead him to face an evil giant in the sky.  

7) Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs at the Tower Theatre, Folkestone- 14th -24th Dec 2018

A community theatre based in an old church, originally built for Army units stationed in the area, The Tower Theatre in Folkestone is a truly unique venue, that plays host to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. With much comedy, song and dance, this panto promises to be a real festive treat. In this captivating adventure, will the Wicked Queen get her way, and be the fairest of them all?

8) Dick Whittington at the Stag Theatre, Sevenoaks – 30th Nov 2018 to 6th Jan 2019

The Stag Theatre has been at the heart of the Sevenoaks community for decades and continues to delight audiences of all ages. The 450-seat theatre boasts the largest performance stage in the South-East and this year celebrates it’s 10th anniversary panto, with the spectacular family pantomime, Dick Whittington. Silly Billy is back, along with Britain's Got Talent star Danny Beard. 


So there you are! There are plenty of pantomimes taking place in Kent to entertain you, friends and the family throughout the Christmas period. Make sure you get around to seeing a panto though, because very soon, the chance to see one will be behind you!  

There is so much festive fun to be had across the county this December to get the family in the Christmas spirit, but have you thought about How to Bring Christmas into the Classroom this month?

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