Aboard the Golden Hinde, Silver & Gold transforms theatre into a thrillingly intimate voyage. As Long John Silver recruits us — very firmly not pirates — James Hyland delivers a gripping retelling that blurs audience and crew. Atmospheric, playful and unexpectedly moving, it’s immersive storytelling at its most memorable.

Warm, funny and unexpectedly moving, Grindr Mom at Waterloo East Theatre is a standout solo performance from Jessica Martin. Blending mischievous humour with genuine emotional depth, this clever monologue explores faith, family and the search for connection, with hilarious Siri and Alexa moments sitting alongside a quietly heartbreaking journey of acceptance.

A warm, funny and unexpectedly moving 20th anniversary production, Glorious! celebrates the remarkable Florence Foster Jenkins — the socialite famously dubbed the worst singer in the world. Wendi Peters delivers a beautifully balanced performance filled with humour and vulnerability, while Matthew James Morrison provides a charming narrative anchor. With simple but effective staging and plenty of laughs, this uplifting true story leaves audiences with a genuine feel-good glow

Cooney’s name promises chaos — and Cash on Delivery delivers a whirlwind of mistaken identities, slamming doors and benefit-fuelled deception at The Mill at Sonning. Slickly performed and energetically staged, it’s a hearty slice of old-school farce — though it feels more 1970s than 1990s. Three and a half stars for an evening of comforting theatrical escapism.

A cheeky, old‑school panto bursting with community spirit, Jack and His Giant Beanstalk at Brick Lane Music Hall blends hearty laughs, impressive costumes, and a warm three‑course dining experience inside its beautifully restored Victorian church home. A joyful, mildly saucy night out led with heart by founder Vincent Hayes and a game, quick‑thinking cast.

Most people will know the novel Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, and being familiar with the story helped when watching this semi-staged concert. Featuring the cream of musical theatre, including Kerry Ellis as Marmee and Christine Allado as Jo, the production delivered an emotional, majestic soundtrack. The sisters harmonised beautifully, each shining in powerful solos that showcased their individual talents.

Already Perfect at the King’s Head Theatre is intimate, funny and deeply moving. Exploring faith, family and six years of conversion therapy, it balances emotional honesty with perfectly timed humour — including Bibles dropping from the sky to much laughter. With outstanding performances and glorious vocal harmony, this five-star musical stays with you long after the final note.

Walking into the Emerald Theatre feels like discovering a secret jazz club from another era. With intimate cabaret tables and softly rising stalls, the setting is as enchanting as the music. The Van Morrison Alumni Band radiated pure joy, delivering beloved songs that felt like old friends—played with soul, warmth, and infectious love for the music.

Gerry and Sewell arrives at the Aldwych Theatre for a lively two-week London run, following sold-out performances in the North East. Set in 2019, the show follows two penniless, unemployed boys determined to save £800 for Newcastle United season tickets. Packed with laughs, puppets, musical numbers and fourth-wall breaks, it remains entertaining even for non-football fans, buoyed by strong performances and a palpable sense of local affection.

Resuming our long-lapsed Boxing Day theatre tradition, Ballet Shoes at the National Theatre proved the perfect return. From the ensemble warming up the audience with ballet moves pre-show, to a thoughtful, playful retelling of Noel Streatfeild’s story, this production balances warmth, invention and heart. Standout dancing, smart adaptations, and a finale that lands squarely in Croydon make this generous family theatre at its best. ★★★★★

There are a dozen ways to stage A Christmas Carol in December — lavish ensembles, swirling snow, celebrity Scrooges. One Christmas Carol goes the opposite way, and in the intimate upstairs room of the Bread & Roses Theatre, that choice feels like a declaration. Dickens is stripped back to story, language, and performance, with Gwithian Evans conjuring an entire Victorian world solo through voice, precision, and extraordinary control. It’s the one.

A cheeky, body-positive cabaret at Golden Goose Theatre, Boys in the Buff is all about confidence, humour, and audience fun. Expect dazzling songs, playful interaction, and even clothing-optional nights for a liberating twist. Running until 10 January 2026—book now for a night that’s bold, inclusive, and unforgettable

From the moment the glittering curtain rises, Hackney Empire’s Cinderella casts its spell. Clive Rowe’s all-singing, all-dancing panto boasts a huge, high-energy cast, joyous live band and show-stopping magic, from Jade Johnson’s Fairy Godmother to a gasp-inducing flying horse and carriage. With riotous Ugly Sisters, a winning Buttons and a warm-hearted Cinderella, it’s polished, funny and full of festive heart.

Beauty and the Beast: A Horny Love Story at Charing Cross Theatre is a gloriously queer panto packed with bawdy laughs, dazzling tartan-punk costumes, and THAT yellow kilt moment. Matt Kennedy charms as Bertie, Keanu Adolphus Johnson transforms as the Beast, and Matthew Baldwin’s Dame steals the show in jaw-dropping couture. Naughty but just avoiding crude—book now at charingcrosstheatre.co.uk!

A riotous queer comedy packed with innuendo and musical mischief! Two young lovers escape wartime London to a boarding house for “bad butch boys,” launching a campy, filthy twist on Narnia. Expect Mr Topless, Arselan the lion, and a Beaver with an appetite—plus reimagined show tunes like “Accepting My Depravity.” High-energy performances, clever jokes, and a sweet love story make this two-hour romp unmissable.

Sparkling, silly and stuffed with festive mischief, Potted Panto at Wilton’s Music Hall is back! Dan Clarkson returns with cheeky charm, joined by Gary Trainor for a fresh twist on classic pantos. Expect topical jokes, slapstick chaos, and even an AI 3D scene. A five-star treat for families—best for kids who know their Cinderellas from their Aladdins. Pure Christmas joy in London’s most magical venue!

Wicked Witches – A Popular Panto for Adults! at The Pleasance Theatre is a riotous, gender-bending twist on Oz, packed with laughs, audience participation, and a heartwarming message of inclusivity. Naughty, clever, and wildly entertaining, it’s easily the most fun I’ve had at the theatre all year. 5/5 stars.

A jolly festive cracker where you are the star. This fast-paced, tech-filled Christmas caper mixes party tricks, games, musical mayhem and audience antics to keep Krampus at bay. Tom Clarkson and Own Visser dazzle with Vic-and-Bob-meets-tech energy, delivering nonstop gags, clever twists and riotous surprises. A joyful, inventive festive treat.

Step into Victorian London at The Lost Estate’s Great Christmas Feast, an atmospheric blend of dining, live music and a one-man A Christmas Carol. David Alwyn gives an energetic, engaging performance, though the show could benefit from a second actor to deepen the emotion. Beautifully staged with a hearty Victorian-inspired menu, it’s a charming, festive experience that delivers plenty of seasonal magic.

A sparkling Christmas treat, The Mill at Sonning’s My Fair Lady is beautifully sung, lovingly staged and full of charm. Simbi Akande and Nadim Naaman shine, and Mark Moraghan’s irresistible Alfred Doolittle steals every scene. Gorgeous costumes, superb values, and the signature meal-and-show experience make this a perfect festive night out.