Pantomime is as much a part of Christmas tradition as turkey and tinsel – and Mansfield Palace Theatre has three shows over the next two months – as well as beginning to look ahead to the festive show in winter 2025.

The first performances of Aladdin will be performed this Saturday and Sunday as the theatre’s professional pantomime is again for another record-breaking year.

Aladdin is packed full of an enchanting story, side-splitting comedy, exotic settings, dazzling special effects, plenty of comedy slapstick and much-loved routines.

CBBC’s Raven, James Mackenzie, who will play the ‘baddie’ Abanazar, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be appearing at Mansfield Palace Theatre for this year’s production of Aladdin. Oh yes I am! I can’t wait to see what mischief I can get up to. Let the challenge begin!”

Coun Stuart Richardson, the portfolio holder for Regeneration and Growth at Mansfield District Council, which operates the theatre, added: “Pantomime is always a great time of year, both giving the people of Mansfield what they want and providing vital income for the local arts economy.

“We never take it for granted that over 30,000 people come to support our annual Christmas extravaganza and from what I’ve seen behind the scenes so far, families are in for a treat.”

Sian Booth, cultural services manager, said: “When times are tough, spending quality time with family becomes even more important. There’s something truly magical about a classic love story – a beautiful, adventurous tale of enchantment where anything feels possible. It’s the perfect escape, offering pure fun and a touch of magic.

“It’s one of the best value ways for families to come together, seeing the kids faces light up (and not because of a screen!) It’s such a rare opportunity for all generations to enjoy something special together.”

The theatre has also just revealed that the the festive production in 2025 will be Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and yes, you guessed it,  favourite funnyman Adam Moss will be back to lead the mayhem – this time as Muddles! The show will run from Saturday, 22nd November to Wednesday, 31st December 2025 – and tickets go on sale at 10am this Saturday, 23rd November.

The theatre is also hosting two further pantomimes in January.

Westfield Folkhouse present Cinderella from Saturday 11th to Sunday, 19th January, and Mansfield Hospitals Theatre Troupe perform Jack and the Beanstalk, from Saturday, 25th January to Saturday, 1st February.

Bookings for all shows can be made online 24/7 at mansfieldpalace.co.uk or with Box Office in person or over the phone on 01623 463133 during opening hours.

Tickets for Aladdin are available now with limited availability for opening weekend remaining.

Tickets for Westfield Folkhouse’s Cinderella are available now.

Tickets for Mansfield Hospitals Theatre Troupe’s Jack and the Beanstalk go on sale at the venue on Friday, 6th December.