4th to 24th December 2025
Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Pantomimes and Winter Family Theatre in Cornwall - 2025
Welcome to our guide to the best pantomimes and winter theatre productions in Cornwall! As the colder months set in, Cornwall comes alive with a rich variety of festive performances that bring joy and laughter to audiences of all ages. From traditional pantomime classics with all the comedy and cheer you expect, to original winter theatre shows that capture the spirit of the season, there's something for everyone. Whether you're enjoying a night out with the family or sharing a festive experience with friends, let us help you discover the top winter theatre events in Cornwall that will make your season bright and memorable!
Check out our full event listings, including non-theatre and free events here
Find out Where Santa is in Cornwall for 2025 here
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Dates from 20th December A Christmas Carol Minack Theatre https://www.minack.com/whats-on/christmas-carol-3 Joy to all mankind? Bah! Spend an afternoon in the company of a mean, tight-fisted, squeezing, wrenching, grasping, clutching, covetous old miser. Bah! Watch horrified as Ebenezer Scrooge is haunted by four creepy ghosts (wooo-oooh) each one more terrifying than the last. Bah! Sob at the bedside of a tiny, malnourished child riven with rickets. Bah! In their inimitable style, the team that brought you Great Expectations, The Odyssey, Canterbury Tales and Dracula: the Vampyr will now take you on a grim (sort of) journey through the dark, dismal streets of Victorian London. This is Dickens’ original words with added silliness. Silliness? Bah! Celebrate the festive season with a mesmerising one-man performance of Charles Dickens’ timeless, transformative story: A Christmas Carol. Bah!
29th December The Sea Show Minack Theatre https://www.minack.com/whats-on/sea-show The Sea Show is a quirky and hilarious mix of puppet show, natural history and comedy cabaret. Meet crazy characters like Morwenna the ‘beautiful’ mermaid, Ruan the reformed seagull and salty seadog Captain Pemburthy, as well as a cast of mischievous sea-squirts, anemones, limpets, crabs and pilchards. Come and celebrate the sea with tall tales, silly slapstick, fantastic facts, live music and songs - unmissable fun for children and adults of all ages! The Sea Show is the creation of Craig Johnson, an actor, musician and puppeteer, and long-standing member of Cornwall’s renowned Kneehigh Theatre. For children aged 5+ and their families.
31st December The Cinderella Story Minack Theatre https://www.minack.com/whats-on/cinderella-story With a hiss and a boo and a pumpkin too, we'll make a panto starring you! Everything you will ever need to know about pantomime wrapped up in this wild and whacky one-man retelling of Cinderella. Be ready for plenty of fun, frolics and a sprinkle of fairy dust. A one man retelling of the story of this magical play by the master of marvellous tales, John Brolly. Children why not bring your grown-ups? They could do with some festive cheer. |
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27th November to 28th December 2025 Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas https://theatreroyal.com/whats-on/father-christmas/ Production of the classic Raymond Briggs story with relaxed, captioned, audio described and BSL interpreted performances as well as Touch Tours on selected dates Join Santa as he awakes from a dream of sun, sea and sand only to find it is the busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve. Watch as he prepares for his Christmas deliveries, feeds his reindeer and finally takes flight into the snowy night. Recommended for ages 3 to 7 years.
25th to 29th November 2025 The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as the West End smash-hit production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe returns to Theatre Royal Plymouth on 25 Nov–29 Nov 2025. Step through the wardrobe into the magic kingdom of Narnia where a world of wonder awaits. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they meet new friends, face dangerous foes and learn the lessons of courage, sacrifice, and the power of love. Watch the nation’s favourite novel The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe come to life on stage in this spectacular production which is guaranteed to delight all ages. Recommended for ages 6+
It’s a frosty Christmas Eve and everyone is tucked up in bed, A sensory delight for 0-3 year olds, this non-verbal show will engage young audiences through beautiful dance, live music and light. The performance will end with space for further exploration, play and festive photos. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult.
12th December 2025 to 10th January 2026 Panto legend Shane Richie returns to Plymouth to star in the pantomime paved with gold! Join Dick Whittington as he seeks fame, fortune, and happiness journeying to become Lord Mayor. Packed with all the traditional pantomime ingredients audiences know to expect from Theatre Royal Plymouth, don’t miss the action-packed pantomime that promises to be full of laugh-out-loud comedy, plenty of boos and hisses and lavish sets and costumes from The London Palladium. Television, recording, musical theatre and pantomime star Shane Richie will be headlining this year’s pantomime in the title role. Shane will be joined by Plymouth panto favourite Samuel Holmes as the Spirit of Bow Bells, musical theatre stars Anne Smith as Queen Rat, Emily Beth Harrington, also returning to her hometown for the festive season, as Alice Fitzwarren and Kira McPherson as Kitty Cat, and panto dame Iain Stuart Robertson as Sarah, The Cook. Book your tickets now for the ultimate magical pantomime adventure!
13th January to 7th February Matilda The Musical https://theatreroyal.com/whats-on/matilda-the-musical-2026/ Following the sellout success of its first tour in 2018/19, Matilda The Musical, the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by Roald Dahl, is heading back out on tour across the UK and Ireland from October 2025. In celebration of 15 years on stage since opening at the Courtyard Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, and following performances in 100 cities across 17 countries worldwide, Matilda now returns to Plymouth! With book by Dennis Kelly, music and lyrics by Tim Minchin and directed by Matthew Warchus, Matilda is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Winner of over 100 international awards, including 24 for Best Musical, the ‘unique and unforgettable’ (Rolling Stone) global phenomenon, Matilda has now delighted over 12 million audiences worldwide.
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Other pantomimes and winter theatre in Cornwall
Falmouth Pavilion
21st November 2025
Jam First Theatre presents 'Elf....ish'
If you’re in need of a healthy dollop of silliness and magic this season, then be prepared to laugh your baubles off and enjoy 50 minutes of Christmas craziness with Jam First Theatre’s Christmas Comedy Cracker ‘Elf..ish!’.
“If you’re sitting comfortably
Upon your theatre seat
I’d like to tell you an Elfish tale
One I think you’ll find a treat
Have you ever met a knocker?
Cornwall’s answer to an Elf
They’re very very silly, if I do say so myself!”
14th December 2025
Squashbox Theatre presentsThe Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness
Squashbox Theatre’s new show is a celebration of everything Christmassy, from fir trees, fairy lights, sleigh bells and snowflakes to crackers, carols, presents and puddings!
Meet a snowman who lives in the fridge, try and spot some naughty elves, play hunt the brussel sprout, endure the world’s worst Christmas jumper and gaze at the “beautiful” Christmas fairy…
Learn about Yuletide traditions old and new, hear the story of the first Christmas Tree and even explore some festive science.
The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness! is an over-stuffed stocking of seasonal surprises crammed with puppets, songs, quizzes and comedy, and over-flowing with crazy characters, silly slapstick, tall tales and fantastic facts – all presented in that unique Squashbox style!
23rd December 2025
The Snowman - Live with Helston Town Band
Celebrate the magic of Christmas with Helston Town Band as they bring The Snowman to life on the big screen with a live musical performance! Enjoy the timeless story accompanied by Howard Blake’s enchanting score, played live by the band, creating a truly magical experience for all ages.
2pm Performance:
A family-friendly show with Santa handing out sweets, around an hour long with no interval. The first half features interactive festive music, followed by the live soundtrack to The Snowman film.
6pm Performance:
An evening performance with a longer first half, a short interval, and the full live film score experience.
Perfect for families, friends, and music lovers, this festive event promises joy, music, and Christmas magic.
14t
5th December 2025 to 3rd January 2026
From Cornwall Playhouse Productions – the team behind hits Peter Pan, Jack and the Beanstalk and Fisherman’s Friends The Musical – comes a magical Cornish pantomime adventure, and a story as old as time.
Following a standout performance as the dame last year, Edward Rowe (Kernow King) is back, this time as Widow Twerkey, for another fast and furious festive adventure. Aladdin is a fresh take on the classic tale, written by Cornwall-based Richard Healey and Edward Rowe.
Perfect for children of all ages (parents and grandparents included!), with heart, soul and songs you’ll know. Prepare to bask in the magic, and look out for a carpet and lamp with surprising extra skills…
14th January 2026
Lose yourself in the magic of classical ballet.
When Clara is gifted a Nutcracker doll who magically comes to life, an enchanting adventure unfolds; a dramatic battle with the Mouse King ensues, and dancing snowflakes fill the stage.
A live orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s splendid score adds the finishing touch to this spectacular performance, a treat for ballet lovers and newcomers alike. The festive charms of The Nutcracker will captivate audiences of all ages.
Mergaliyev Classical Ballet returns to Truro to delight audiences with a company of international dancers brought together by Artistic Directors Yassaui and Sophie Mergaliyev.
www.redruth.merlincinemas.co.uk
19th to 23rd November 2025
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat presented by R.A.O.ST
Performance of the classic musical
14th and 15th December 2025
Santa's Christmas Party for Kids
stmas is a season of joy, love and sharing, a time when Santa delivers presents all over the world... but what would Santa himself like for Christmas? Dasher the Reindeer has an idea...Pompom the Penguin thinks he knows... or maybe Snowy the Snowman has the answer? Dotty the Elf needs all their help - and yours - to find out!
Join a fun, festive, musical adventure to give Santa the very best Christmas, then meet him at his home in the North Pole! There every child will receive a special present from Father Christmas in our popular meet, greet and treat, after the most Christmassy Christmas show ever!
Santa's Christmas Wish is a festive, song-filled, interactive family show particularly suitable for 2-8 year olds. It lasts 45 minutes and is followed by a special meet, greet and treat with Father Christmas himself!
15th to 19th January 2025
R.A.M.P.S are back with another spectacular Pantomime to brighten up your post Christmas blues. With laugh out loud comedy, incredible special effects, stunning song and dance numbers, this will surely be a show you don't want to miss! Will Robin be able to defeat the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, will Friar Tuck find his next meal, will Little John find his true love, will Maid Marian save the day!?!
5th and 6th December 2025
The Ugly Duckling
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/sterts/the-ugly-duckling-directed-by-mike-shepherd/e-ryamma
When Mother Duck’s eggs start to hatch, one of her ducklings is a little bit different from the others. He’s larger, clumsier and just, well, not quite like the rest…
This beautiful new show from Kneehigh’s Mike Shepherd fuses storytelling, music and puppets from Lyndie Wright (The Little Angel) to bring the beloved Hans Christian Andersen tale to life in a sweet, silly and sometimes sad show for children aged three and up.
14th December 2025
It’s Christmas Eve in Cornwall and two little girls and their Gran are excitedly preparing for the big day. But where’s Dad?
As night falls, their fisherman father is caught in a storm far out at sea. Will he make it home for Christmas? Perhaps — with some extra special help.
Based on the beloved children’s book A Christmas in Cornwall by local author Craig Barr-Green, featuring original live music and songs by Matthew Thomason, Nadelik is a delightful, interactive festive show for children and their families, with live action, puppetry, and a heap of festive cheer.
www.thepoly.org
20th December
Sir Tristan and the Christmas Tree
Join Sir Tristan once more as he sets out to find out why the Great Christmas Tree of Camelot is late! A festive family show, with Knights, Wizards, Yule Logs, Christmas Trees and more! Bought to you by Swashbuckling Cornwall.
22nd December 2025
The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness
Squashbox Theatre’s new show is a celebration of everything Christmassy, from fir trees, fairy lights, sleigh bells and snowflakes to crackers, carols, presents and puddings!
Meet a snowman who lives in the fridge, try and spot some naughty elves, play hunt the brussel sprout, endure the world’s worst Christmas jumper and gaze at the “beautiful” Christmas fairy…
Learn about Yuletide traditions old and new, hear the story of the first Christmas Tree and even explore some festive science.
The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness! is an over-stuffed stocking of seasonal surprises crammed with puppets, songs, quizzes and comedy, and over-flowing with crazy characters, silly slapstick, tall tales and fantastic facts – all presented in that unique Squashbox style!
Solomon Browne Memorial Hall, Mousehole
www.cousinjacks.org/the-mousehole-cat
13th to 31st December 2025
The Mousehole Cat
Cousin Jacks return with their magical puppet and live-action production for the eighth consecutive year.
Based on the well-known Cornish legend this uniquely heartwarming story of the friendship between a fearless fisherman and his devoted cat will warm the cockles of everyone's hearts... almost as much as an ‘efty portion of stargazy pie!
www.helstontheatrecompany.co.uk
27th January to 1st February 2026
Perfect for all ages, this traditional British pantomime promises songs, laughter, and plenty of audience participation. Book your tickets early - this family favorite always sells out fast!
www.royalcornwallmuseum.org.uk
Dates from 10th December 2024
Father Christmas at the Museum
Follow Lowen the Elf on an enchanting journey, brought to life with song, light, and spellbinding projections.
Let your imagination take flight at this most wonderful time of year, with a heart warming tale of how Cornwall’s birds – including a magnificent gathering of Choughs – came together to help the reindeers and save Christmas.
The culmination of the journey brings you to Father Christmas’ secret Kernow Office for a special visit.
This immersive storytelling experience promises a festive memory for the whole family — complete with a small gift and a photo opportunity with the man himself.
Recommended for ages 2+
5th to 7th December 2025
Join the Merry Men for a fun-filled, action-packed pantomime as Robin Hood takes on the dastardly Sheriff of Nottingham!
With heroic hi-jinks, slapstick silliness, and plenty of audience participation, this family-friendly adventure is full of laughter, music, and magical surprises.
Will Robin outwit the Sheriff?
Will Maid Marian save the day?
And will there be enough panto magic to keep the forest safe?
Find out in Robin Hood – a side-splitting show for all ages!
https://www.trevowhelston.co.uk/event-details/a-christmas-carol
19th December 2025
A Christmas Carol
Kernow Chamber Players presents a one-man dramatisation of Charles Dickens’ immortal work, A Christmas Carol, with live chamber music accompaniment.
www.tolmencentre.co.uk
An afternoon matinee for all the family using small scale intricate puppets, a beautifully made set, with live accompanying music on stage. All ages welcome from 5 to 105!
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
www.nmmc.co.uk
20th to 23rd December 2025
It’s Christmas Eve in Cornwall and two little girls and their Gran are excitedly preparing for the big day. But where’s Dad?
As night falls, their fisherman father is caught in a storm far out at sea. Will he make it home for Christmas? Perhaps—with some extra special help.
Based on the beloved children’s book A Christmas in Cornwall by local author Craig Barr-Green, featuring original live music and songs by Matthew Thomason, Nadelik is a delightful, interactive Christmas show for children and their families, with live action, puppetry, and a heap of festive cheer.
Cornish Cinema Club - Royal Cornwall Events Centre
www.thelittleboxoffice.com/skylightcinema
20th December 2025 - Home Alone
20th December - Elf
21st December - How the Grinch Stole Christmas
7th December 2025
The Fairies That Kept Tradition Alive at Consols Pond
Christmas spirit, community and a special pond helped along by some magical fairies make this the play to see this festive period.
The Cornish Lark (aka Nicole Tesseyman) and her “Little Larks” create magic at St Ives Arts Club every Christmas when they put on a show. This year’s theme is based around a true story about Consols pond at the top of town. Every Good Friday, the community meet to sail boats they’ve made, but this tradition has been under threat. The tradition of sailing tiny boats on the water is thought to have originated from ancient superstitious fishing communities who would float the boats as offerings to the weather gods, hoping for good catches and protection from the storms.
The Friends of Consols Pond, lead by Joel Ninnes have managed to keep this 100 year old tradition alive and some proceeds from a song about the pond written especially by The Cornish Lark will go towards keeping it going. The children of “Little Larks” are the fairies in this fairytale adaptation of the true St Ives story. A real heartwarming production which will bring joy and comfort to many at this time of year.
St Ives Library
Dates from 19th December
A Christmas Carol
Celebrate the festive season with a mesmerising one-man performance of Charles Dickens’ timeless, transformative story: A Christmas Carol. Bah!
Spend an evening with Ebenezer Scrooge: a squeezing, wrenching, grasping, clutching covetous old miser. Bah!
In their inimitable style, the team that brought you Great Expectations, Dracula and The Odyssey will now take you on a grim (sort of) journey through the dark, dismal streets of Victorian London.
This is Dickens’ original words with added silliness. Silliness? Bah!
WTW Cinemas
White River Cinema - www.wtwcinemas.co.uk/st-austell
The Regal Cinema, Wadebridge - www.wtwcinemas.co.uk/wadebridge
The Plaza, Truro - www.wtwcinemas.co.uk/truro
Lighthouse, Newquay - www.wtwcinemas.co.uk/newquay
Selected dates
The Polar Express: Pyjama Party
Join in for a journey aboard the "Pyjama Party Express," where we'll embark on a heartwarming adventure to the North Pole with a screening of the beloved holiday classic, "The Polar Express." Get ready to don your comfiest pyjamas and snuggle up with a hot chocolate as we follow the journey of a young boy who learns the true spirit of Christmas. Each guest will receive a steaming cup of hot chocolate and pack of cookies each.