If you can only tolerate a pantomime after a fair few glasses of wine and if you have absolutely no desire to drearily heckle “He’s behind you!”, hiding your discomfort under the hubbub of fake laughter – fear not – you don’t have to bar yourself from theatres altogether this season. There are plenty of alternatives to pantomimes.

So, panto naysayers, we offer you our run-down of festive shows running through December and early January (best to keep occupied and avoid the January blues), offering something for everyone!

Priscilla Queen of the Desert

Theatre Royal, Tue 17th Dec 2019 – Sat 4th Jan 2020

This Christmas the iconic musical is coming to Brighton’s Theatre Royal. Priscilla is the dazzling, outrageous and hilarious journey of three friends travelling the Outback on quest for acceptance and adventure. Strictly’s Joe McFadden joins the cast to provide a dance packed and freshly exciting new musical. Join them for a night of sparkles, feathers, sassiness and self-acceptance – with a soundtrack to match!

Thriller Live

Theatre Royal, Wed 8th Jan 2020 – Sat 11th Jan 2020

It really has been 48 years since Michael Jackson took the world by song and storm. Straight from London’s West End, Thriller Live celebrates the legacy of the King of Pop. You can expect to sing along to your favourite songs in an all-consuming, immersive show that will keep you on your feet! A stage and video spectacular, equipped with dancers, singers and musicians – I’ll be there.

Race Course Company: Super Sunday

Brighton Dome, Tues 17th – Fri 27th Dec 2019

Looking for a thrill? Race Course Company’s Super Sunday promises 'breathtaking stunts and dark humour’ in its rawest form. Six acrobats soar through scenes of magic – expect trampolines, human catapults and a wheel of death. Internationally acclaimed, check it out this contemporary circus if you fancy a dose of creative spectacle and amusing acrobatics!

The Wizard of Oz

Brighton Dome, Sat 28th & Sun 29th Dec 2019

Dancing down the yellow brick road? Yes please. Ballet Theatre UK adapts the classic and well-loved tale, expressing it through the beauty of classical dance. Giving this classic an artistic makeover, The Wizard of Oz is bound to be a stunning feat of the imagination. Grab your woolly socks and join Toto and the gang on the yellow brick road this yuletide. 

Written By: Polly Wyatt