We round up some of the best pantomimes and festive performances that groups will love to see this winter season.
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Christmas may still seem too far in the distance for some, but many group organisers will have planned ahead already.
Here’s a round-up of some great Christmas shows and pantomimes that groups will love… oh yes they will!
1. Nativity! The Musical, The Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith, 19th - 31st December
Follow teacher Mr Maddens and his crazy assistant Mr Poppy as they struggle with schoolchildren to create the perfect school nativity that will make everyone’s Christmas wish come true.
Group benefits: Discounts are available for ten or more people.
2. Peter Pan, New Theatre Royal Portsmouth, 13th – 31st December
Join Wendy, John and Michael on an enchanting adventure to Neverland with the boy who never grew up. Packed with wonderful sets, costumes and music, this performance is produced in the historic theatre’s inimitable extravaganza style and will thrill both child and adults alike.
Group benefits: GTOs receive one free ticket for every ten purchased.
3. Elf, Motorpoint Arena Cardiff / Genting Arena Birmingham / Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, 14th - 30th December
If you love the film (who doesn’t), then you’ll want to see the hit musical, based on the favourite movie starring actor Will Ferrell. The production tells the story of Buddy the Elf who leaves the North Pole to seek out his real father in New York.
Group benefits: Each theatre has its own group booking system, so GTOs are advised to contact their chosen venue.
4. Snow White, London Palladium, 8th December - 13th January
For the third year, Qdos Entertainment will return to the London Palladium with a star-studded production of Snow White boasting the likes of Dawn French, Julian Clary, Paul Zerdin, Nigel Havers, Gary Wilmot and Strictly stars Vincent and Flavia.
Group benefits: Group rates are available for ten or more people for the January performances.
5. Christmas Variety Spectacular, Wicksteed Park, Northamptonshire, Selected dates in November and December
The Christmas Variety Spectacular features Christmas music, dance and comedy at the Wicksteed Park Pavilion, performed by singers and dancers from the West End, with songs from shows such as Les Misérables, Oklahoma, Miss Saigon and Carousel.
Group benefits: Group bookings are available.
6. Thursford Christmas Spectacular, Thursford Collection, Norfolk, 6th November to 23rd December
Thursford Christmas Spectacular has attracted millions of visitors from across the country during its 41-year history. Set in the surroundings of mechanical organs and fairground carousels, the show is a celebration of non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety.
Group benefits: Discounts are available to 20 or more people.
7. Cinderella, Grand Opera House York, 14th December - 6th January
In this year’s Grand Opera House pantomime of the famous rags to riches tale, Cinderella, Michelle Heaton, who was a member of the pop group Liberty X, has been cast as the Fairy Godmother.
Group benefits: Discounts are available on various group sizes when booking through ATG Tickets.
8. Aladdin, Hackney Empire, London, 24th November - 6th January
The Olivier Award-winning ‘Grande Dame of pantomime’, Clive Rowe, is set to return to the East End stage for this 2018 pantomime. During a landmark year for the panto, Rowe will play the Dame in writer and director Susie McKenna’s 20th anniversary production which will see a whole new staging of Aladdin.
Group benefits: Groups of ten or more will find discounts available for certain performances.
9. The Wizard of Oz, Blackpool Opera House, Blackpool Winter Gardens, 7th - 30th December
X- Factor 2017 semi-finalist Holly Tandy will be stepping into Dorothy’s ruby slippers to star in the Royal Shakespeare Company adaptation of this timeless family favourite.
Group benefits: Discounted rates, a dedicated team, and a range of catering and hospitality packages.
Pictured: Steve McFadden Andrew Ryan and Bobby Davro.
10. Dick Whittington, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton, 15th December - 6th January
Soap legend Steve McFadden, funny man Bobby Davro and pantomime dame Andrew Ryan will star in this year’s Mayflower Theatre pantomime, Dick Whittington. Audiences will join the handsome hero Dick Whittington (and his trusty cat) as he seeks fame, fortune and happiness journeying to become the Lord Mayor of London.
Group benefits: Groups of 20 or more receive a discount on tickets plus one free ticket with every 20 paid for.
11. The Snowman, Peacock Theatre, Sadler’s Wells, 22nd November - 6th January
The Snowman will run at the Peacock Theatre from 22nd November to 6th January. This performance is based on Raymond Briggs’ illustrated book The Snowman which transports audiences into the wintery wonderland of a boy and his magical snowman.
Group benefits: Plus, groups can see Matthew Bourne’s production of Swan Lake which will include an eight-week Christmas season at Sadler’s Wells from 4th December to 27th January 2019 as part of its 32 week UK tour.
