“Oh yes you do!” – and Leeds, you absolutely should.
Christmas has arrived with its twinkling lights, mulled wine, festive markets, and, best of all, pantomime season! The Carriageworks Theatre’s 19th annual pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, is a sparkling, action-packed festive treat bursting with magic, music, and mischief. Running until 4th January, it’s the perfect way to dive headfirst into the Christmas spirit.
The wicked fairy Carabosse (Katherine Picar) casts her curse with all the flair and drama you could wish for, but fear not – the dashing Prince Benedict (Thomas Currie), the good fairy (Serena Walsh), and the hilariously chaotic Muddles (Jez Edwards) are there to save the day. Jez, celebrating his 16th year at Carriageworks, is pure pantomime gold, keeping laughs rolling from start to finish, while Aaron Steadman’s Dame Dolly brings heart, mischief, and plenty of belly laughs.
Princess Ariana (Caitlin Riley) brings a delicate charm that makes you instantly root for her, and the King, played by Paul Winterford, delivers a warm, commendable performance.
There’s even a brilliantly ridiculous moment where a Game of Thrones “Mother of Dragons” reference is mashed up with characters dressed as Avengers – an unexpected twist that sets up a hilariously chaotic climax.
Under Paul Giddings’ direction, Sleeping Beauty is full of energy and sparkle. The dancers add an extra layer of wow-factor – the perfect cherries on top of this already dazzling festive cake.
The show blends traditional panto magic with a modern twist. From trending TikTok and Instagram tunes to cheeky memes and even the classic “nothing beats a Jet2holidays” gag, the humour lands perfectly with audiences of all ages. Add the music, the choreography, and Scenic Pantomimes’ dazzling sets, and every scene is a visual delight.
A long-loved Carriageworks tradition, the Ghostbusters routine is as mind-blowing as ever – but this year they took it up a notch, with the ghost arriving on skates, adding extra fun to the fire. And of course, the finale features children hopping onstage and getting the whole audience dancing, which sends you home buzzing with festive cheer.
Audience participation is alive and thriving – boo, cheer, sing, shout – and you’ll leave the theatre grinning from ear to ear. Sleeping Beauty is a magical, laugh-out-loud, heartwarming family treat bursting with festive fun.
Tickets are available at Leeds Tickets Hub – grab yours before the spell ends!