See Puss in Boots at the Theatre Royal Winchester from 29 November 2025 until 4 January 2026
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!
See some familiar faces on the Winchester stage
Eagle-eyed audience members will recognise Theatre Royal Winchester’s resident dame, Julian Eardley, return for his 16th pantomime as Dame Dolly Duster. In recent years, Julian has taken the guise of Fairy Kind Heart in Cinderella, the title role in Mother Goose and the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz.
Also taking to Winchester’s stage once more is Liam Watson 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 as Colin’s brother Dick, the Ogre and in the community ensemble.
You can look forward to giving a warm welcome to Winchester newcomers: Jess Lobo as Princess Claribelle, Emma Farney as Fluella Frostbite, Maria Kyriacou as Tom and the puppeteer, and Bekah Selina as Colin’s faithful, fearless feline, Puss!
Behind the scenes, Robin Belfield is the writer and director, with original music by 15-time pantomime composer Simon Slater.
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.
The best availability and the cheapest tickets are in early December, so audiences should book tickets early!
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.