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A quick guide to all the Christmas pantos and other shows happening across Dorset this year.
Is there anything better than a Christmas panto? Oh, no, there isn’t! Get yourself into the festive spirit with these pantos and other shows happening at theatres across the county. If I’ve missed anything, let me know in the comments, and I’ll add it.
READ MORE: Christmas Events in Dorset
Christmas Pantomimes in Dorset
Cinderella at Bournemouth Pavilion
2026 Dates: 5 Dec – 3 Jan 2027
Location: Bournemouth Pavilion, BH1 2BU
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Bournemouth’s biggest and most loved pantomime is back. Your wish is our command! This Christmas, step into the magical world of Aladdin at Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre, where adventure, laughter and festive sparkle come together in one unforgettable family pantomime.
Fresh from one of Coronation Street’s biggest and most talked-about storylines, James Cartwright stars as the wicked Abanazar – so get ready to bring your loudest boos! He joins Britain’s Got Talent Finalist Kristel Herrera and Princess Jasmine, Panto newcomer Dante Nardone as Aladdin, Jamie Steen as the gloriously outrageous Widow Twankey, and Bournemouth favourite Noel Brodie, returning for his incredible 12th year as Wishee Washee.
Poole Lighthouse: Jack and the Beanstalk
2026 Dates: 10 Dec – 3 Jan 2027
Location: Lighthouse, BH15 1UG
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Brimming with spectacular musical numbers, dazzling costumes, sensational sets and plenty of laugh-out-loud family comedy, get ready to be swept away on a giant fairytale. Starring CBeebies and pantomime legend Chris Jarvis, West End star Bernadette Bangura (Moulin Rouge, Hairspray), and Sarah Louise Young (An Evening Without Kate Bush).
Weymouth Pavilion: Cinderella
2026 Dates: 19 Dec – 2 Jan 2027
Location: Weymouth Pavilion, DT4 8ED
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Weymouth Pavilion and Enchanted Entertainment is bringing the nation’s favourite and most treasured pantomime to life this Christmas. Join the festive fun with the lovable Buttons, the handsome Prince Charming, the wicked Ugly Sisters, the magical Fairy Godmother and, of course, the beautiful Cinderella.
Wimborne: Jack And The Beanstalk
2026 Dates: 12 Dec – 3 Jan 2027
Location: Tivoli Theatre, BH21 1LT
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Made To Measure Productions present Jack And The Beanstalk at the award-winning Tivoli Theatre, starring TV legend Vicki Michelle, best known for her iconic role as Yvette Carte-Blanche in ‘Allo ‘Allo, alongside a host of familiar Wimborne favourites. Returning for his eighth consecutive year as the Tivoli’s much-loved Dame is Courtney Jackson, who will don the frock once again as Dame Trott.
Christchurch: Cinderella
2026 Dates: 12 – 30 Dec
Location: The Regent Theatre, BH23 1AS
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“The nation’s favourite pantomime is suitable for the whole family and audiences will be captivated by this production which is full of magic, laughter, audience participation and spectacular surprises, including a flying coach!”
Cinderella tells the story of a girl who dreams of escaping her life as a servant, being bossed around all day by her wicked stepsisters. Her best friend Buttons and her Fairy Godmother will make her dreams come true in this enchanting fairy tale, as a dashing Prince and his best friend Dandini hold their annual ball at the palace.
Swanage: TBC
2026 Dates: TBC
Location: The Mowlam Theatre, BH19 1DD
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This year’s panto hasn’t been announced yet.
Other Christmas Shows in Dorset
The Big Christmas Assembly
2026 Dates: 20 Dec
Location: Weymouth Pavilion
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Fans of festive cheer and school assembly nostalgia, rejoice! The nation’s favourite primary school teacher-turned-Glastonbury sensation James B Partridge is bringing The Big Christmas Assembly to Weymouth in 2026.
Sing along with all your favourite school Christmas songs, from Jingle Bells to This Little Light of Mine. The Big Christmas Assembly blends festive favourites, primary school memories, and a joyful night out with friends and family.
Candlelight Concert: Christmas Classics
2026 Dates: 19 Dec
Location: St Peter’s Church, Bournemouth, BH1 2EE
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This festive season, Candlelight® will transform St Peter’s Church with thousands of flickering candles to host an unforgettable performance featuring classic Christmas carols and festive holiday songs, performed by a talented local string quartet.
Christmas Family Theatre at Moors Valley
2026 Dates: TBC
Location: Moors Valley Country Park, Ringwood BH24 2ET
Still TBC
Last year, the Travelling Players brought a magical Christmas show to Moors Valley. Stay tuned to hear if they’ll be returning.
Do you know any other Christmas shows or pantos in Dorset this year? Contact me and I’ll add it to the list!
