The only way to kick off a bit of Christmas joy is with the camp and marvellously chaotic British pantomime – and where better to attend one than the Belgrade Theatre.
I’ve attended the Belgrade Theatre for many years now, and every single year, writer Iain Laughlin (who also plays the Pantomime Dame Nanny Fanny McWheeze!) finds new ways of bringing out more craziness, more cackles and more creativity, time and time again.
Sleeping Beauty is one of my favourite pantomimes- although of course, it’s not really about the story that’s been chosen, but how it’s told. With modernised references that the kids will get, the tongue-in-cheek jokes for the adults, and the usual slapstick and silliness that all can enjoy, pantomime is all in the method.
Your typical pantomime roles were all played with flair and charisma by familiar returning actors like Craig Hollingsworth (Muddles the Jester), in his fourteenth panto with the Belgrade, and Andy Hockley (as the gnome, Grumbleweed) who was celebrating his twentieth panto with the Belgrade, with some fresh faces added into the mix who all performed with passion, plus an ensemble that clearly put their heart and soul into everything they’re doing.
I truly believe that the Belgrade theatre puts on one of the best pantomimes in the Midlands, if not the UK – and I was so privileged to be one of the first to see it this year. The sets and costumes are always jaw-dropping – with no expense spared on the glitter – and the sound and lighting tech is always top notch too.
Pantomime is a walking masterclass in high camp – with the dame a subversive, dazzling figure whose outrageous costumes and double-entendres deliberately blur gender lines, making the entire show feel like a celebratory queer space from start to finish. Special mention from us for Aonghas Ewen (they/them), whose presence as the high fairy brought a burst of fresh, non-binary energy to the stage.
If you’re looking for a fantastic way to properly kick off the Christmas season and feel a little bit of festive cheer, Sleeping Beauty is running until 3rd January 2026. Not many evenings nowadays are spent crying with laughter, particularly in the darker months; so, thank you to the Belgrade for always bringing the sparkle, the glamour and the glee to make our winters magical!
Photo credit: Nicola Young Photography
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