The festive season is here and what better way to celebrate than with some fun-filled and hilarious pantomimes? Scotland has a rich tradition of producing original and entertaining shows that appeal to audiences of all ages. Here are some of the best pantomimes that you can catch this year in Scotland.
Aladdin at the Macrobert Arts Centre, Stirling
If you are looking for a magical adventure with a twist, then you will love Aladdin at the Macrobert Arts Centre in Stirling. This pantomime is set in Stirlingshire, where Aladdin is a poor boy who dreams of becoming a prince. He meets a mysterious stranger who offers him a chance to enter the Cave of Wonders and find a magic lamp. But he soon discovers that the stranger is none other than the evil Abanazar, who wants to use the lamp to take over the world. Will Aladdin be able to stop him and win the heart of Princess Jasmine?
This pantomime is written and directed by Johnny McKnight, who also plays the role of Aladdin’s mother, Widow Twankey. McKnight is known for his witty and irreverent style of humour, which makes this show a laugh-out-loud experience. The show also features catchy songs, stunning costumes, and spectacular special effects. You can expect to see flying carpets, genies, and camels on stage. The show runs from November 25, 2023 to January 7, 2024 and tickets start from £10.50.
Aganeza Scrooge at the Tron Theatre, Glasgow
If you are looking for a modern and musical version of a classic tale, then you will enjoy Aganeza Scrooge at the Tron Theatre in Glasgow. This pantomime is a parody of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, but with a Scottish twist. The story follows Aganeza Scrooge, a greedy and grumpy music mogul who hates Christmas. She is visited by three ghosts who show her the past, present, and future of her life and the people she has affected. Will she learn to change her ways and embrace the spirit of Christmas?
This pantomime is written by Forbes Masson, who also plays the role of Aganeza Scrooge. Masson is a multi-talented actor, writer, and musician, who has created many award-winning shows. He is joined by a talented cast of actors, singers, and dancers, who perform original songs and hilarious sketches. The show also features amazing costumes, colourful sets, and clever references to popular culture. The show runs from December 1, 2023 to January 7, 2024 and tickets start from £9.
Aladdin at Perth Theatre
If you are looking for a traditional and family-friendly pantomime, then you will like Aladdin at Perth Theatre. This pantomime is based on the famous Arabian Nights story, where Aladdin is a street urchin who falls in love with Princess Jasmine. He finds a magic lamp that contains a genie who grants him three wishes. He uses them to become a prince and defeat the evil Jafar, who wants to marry Jasmine and rule the kingdom. Will Aladdin and Jasmine live happily ever after?
This pantomime is written by Alan McHugh, who is one of the most experienced and successful pantomime writers in the UK. He has written over 50 pantomimes for various theatres and celebrities. He is also the co-writer and co-star of the hit TV comedy Mrs Brown’s Boys. The show is directed by Lu Kemp, who is the artistic director of Perth Theatre. She has directed many acclaimed and innovative shows for various venues and festivals. The show features a fantastic cast of actors, singers, and dancers, who perform classic songs, funny jokes, and audience participation. The show runs from December 9, 2023 to January 6, 2024 and tickets start from £11.
