The festive season is finally here and this means the return of pantomimes and Christmassy shows to Kent. The most wonderful time of the year brings so much more theatre to the county and as an avid arts fan, I try to see as much of it as I can. If you’re not sure what to see this Christmas, I have you covered, having scoured various venue listings and collated press releases. So without further ado, here is some of the festive theatre in Kent in 2025.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury
For me, nothing says Christmas is here quite like the opening of the Marlowe Theatre pantomime. This year’s show is ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ and after attending the very first Marlowe Theatre Christmas Lights Switch On a couple of weeks ago and listening to the cast talk about this year’s panto, it is fair to say I am very excited to watch the production on press night. If you’re local to Canterbury, this pantomime is always a must-see and should be top of your list. Performances run until Sunday 11th January 2026.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs tickets
Dear Santa
Gulbenkian Arts Centre, Canterbury
‘Dear Santa’: a festive piece of theatre from children’s author Rod Campbell, is at the Gulbenkian Arts Centre on the University of Kent campus from Saturday 6th to 13th December. Described as “an ideal introduction to theatre for those aged two and over”, this story sees Santa search for a present for central character Sarah, even if it takes multiple attempts. If experiences of last year’s ‘The Snowsmith’ are anything to go by, the Gulbenkian is a very welcoming venue and it is wonderful that they will host a Christmas show again for a full week.
Jack and the Beanstalk
The Sinden Theatre, Tenterden
In 2024 I experienced my first Tenterden Panto, ‘Sleeping Beauty’, and thought it was hilarious. This year the same producers are back with ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ and lots of the cast are returning. From 11th to 31st December you can join Jack, his cow and various other characters for a pantomime adventure, complete with music, dancing and plenty of puns. There is even a “ten-2-ten” performance on Sunday 14th December, which is a fun addition.
Jack and the Beanstalk tickets
Hare and Tortoise
Studio venue at The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury
What you might not know is every year there are two festive shows at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury: a pantomime in the main auditorium and some new writing in the Studio venue. The Studio production is usually aimed at younger children and this year’s ‘Hare and Tortoise’ is an adaptation of the classic fable. Brought to life by Tutti Frutti Productions, this piece of children’s theatre offers audiences a chance to be spectators for an enthralling race. ‘Hare and Tortoise’ is open from Friday 12th to Wednesday 31st December.
A Fairytale for Christmas
The Granville Theatre, Ramsgate
Prestige Productions’ touring show that combines Christmas traditions with St Patrick’s Day celebrations is currently touring the UK and Ireland. A couple of weeks ago I watched the production at the Churchill Theatre in Bromley and really enjoyed the fusion of Christmas songs with Irish folk rhythms and dancing. On 2nd and 3rd December there are performances at the Granville Theatre in Ramsgate, and if you’ve ever been inspired by Irish folk music and also love all things Christmas, this is definitely for you.
A Fairytale for Christmas tickets
That’ll Be Christmas
Orchard West, Dartford
The festive version of the touring show ‘That’ll Be The Day’, which has been touring for 40 years, is heading to Orchard West, Dartford on Thursday 4th December. Featuring a setlist that includes ‘Rockin Around the Christmas Tree’, ‘Step into Christmas’ and ‘Last Christmas’ to name but a few, audiences will get to hear from lead singer Trevor Payne and an ensemble of vocalists over the course of nearly 3 hours including an interval. Combining tribute and comedy sketches, this sounds like a nostalgic production.
It’s a Wonderful Life
The Garlinge Theatre, Canterbury
Between Christmas and New Year, the Garlinge Theatre Repertory Company is presenting their first show, the stage play of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’. Andrew Slade of Slade Wolfe Enterprises Ltd is directing and this is sure to be a very festive offering for the quieter days between the two celebrations. You can catch the company in action on 27th and 28th December.
The Overtones’ 15th Anniversary Christmas Party
The Granville Theatre, Ramsgate
Vocal harmony group ‘The Overtones’ are celebrating their 15th anniversary and currently touring the UK with a Christmas Party show. The production combines soul, Motown, doo-wop, pop and seasonal music, and will be in Ramsgate for one night only on Saturday 6th December. Whilst I have never seen them perform live, from recordings I can vouch for the strength of their harmonies and they have a huge following.
Jingle Bell Rocks!
ARK – Cliftonville Cultural Space, Margate
Brigitte Aphrodite, QuietBoy and Liv Morris have collaborated on a new show ‘Jingle Bell Rocks!’ which is at ARK Cliftonville in Margate from Saturday 20th to Tuesday 23rd December. Described as a “riotous, fun-filled, punk-spirited hour of live music, laughter and togetherness for families of all ages”, this new show sounds like a wonderful festive celebration and will feature both Christmas classics and original music.
The High-Flying Adventures of Peter Pan
Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone
Pantomime fever is back at the Leas Cliff Hall from Friday 12th December and this year’s show is ‘The High-Flying Adventures of Peter Pan’. The unique venue on a cliff above Folkestone seafront will host the Neverland-themed show throughout the festive season, with the final performance scheduled for New Year’s Eve. Featuring Peter, Wendy, Tink, Captain Hook and Mrs Smee, it sounds like it’s going to be an adventure-filled panto!
The High-Flying Adventures of Peter Pan tickets
Watching festive theatre in Kent
This is just a starting point for ideas of festive shows to watch in the county this Christmas. I am sure I will update this piece throughout the month of December, as I learn of other productions. If you are fortunate enough to see some theatre this festive season, I hope you have a truly magical and memorable time with your friends and families!
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