Panto season in Winchester

See Puss in Boots at the Theatre Royal Winchester from 29 November 2025 until 4 January 2026

New page 44 45 Theatre Royal

Nothing says Christmas like a trip to the pantomime, where audiences young and old can watch a traditional fairy tale come to life with song, dance and a fair bit of audience participation. Whether you're an annual panto-goer or want a taste of this quintessentially British tradition, look no further than Theatre Royal Winchester's production of Puss in Boots this festive season!

Puss in Boots is the 2025 Christmas panto

Puss in Boots tells the story of Colin, the poor Miller’s son, who has no chance of impressing the beautiful princess. That is, until his faithful cat, Puss, proves to be no ordinary feline. Puss turns Colin from zero to hero and their swashbuckling adventures begin!

This traditional pantomime is the purr-fect way to celebrate the Christmas season with the whole family. You can expect a side-splitting performance packed with original songs, corny jokes, live music and plenty of audience participation!

Puss in boots large

See some familiar faces on the Winchester stage

Eagle-eyed audience members will recognise Theatre Royal Winchester’s resident dame, Julian Eardley, who returns for his 16th pantomime, this year as Dame Dolly Duster.

Liam Watson returns as Colin, a penniless lad with dreams of winning the princess’s heart, Andrew Wheaton in the dual role of the Miller and Old King Cole, and Jack Oliver in a variety of roles.

You can look forward to giving a warm welcome to Winchester newcomers: Jess Lobo as Princess Claribelle, Emma Fenney as Fluella Frostbite, Maria Kyriacou as Tom and the puppeteer, and Bekah Selina as Colin’s faithful, fearless feline and star of the show Puss!

Puss in Boots has been written and directed by Robin Belfield with original music by composer Simon Slater.

Puss in Boots dame at Theatre Royal Winchester

Puss in Boots performance information

Puss in Boots will be at Theatre Royal Winchester from Saturday 29 November 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026.

There will also be a number of accessible performances of Puss in Boots, including relaxed, audio-described and BSL-interpreted. For those who cannot make it in-person, there is also the option to livestream at home.

Tickets are selling fast for this Purrr-fect panto so book soon to avoid disappointment. For best availability and cheapest tickets look at early December performances.

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New page 44 45 Theatre Royal

Puss in Boots is supported by the theatre’s charity, Play to the Crowd’s, Corporate Partner, regional law firm, Paris Smith.

All images courtesy of Theatre Royal Winchester.

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