Panto season is finally on its way - we’re ready to book our tickets (unless we have done already) and are counting down the days to sit back, relax and laugh our socks off to the hilarity of Malta’s most talented actors and actresses.

There are a number of pantos going on throughout the Christmas season; some of which are in Maltese such as the Catholic Institute’s Junglebook, which will take place at the Institute’s theatre in Floriana from 22nd till 30th December. The University of Malta will also host its own production for the Christmas period, where students and theatre buffs will take to the stage to amuse the crowds.

Two of the biggest shows that are taking place this festive season are coordinated by the biggest names in the industry on local shores. The MADC production will be held at the MFCC from 23rd December 2018 till 5th January 2019 while FM Productions will host their Christmas pantomime at the Manoel Theatre from 23rd December till 6th January 2019. A new panto on the scene is one by Teatru Malta, which will take place from today, 19th December, until the 23rd.

Jack and the Beanstalk, MADC

This year the MADC will be bringing the story of Jack and the Beanstalk to life under the authorship and direction of Malcolm Galea. We all know the story of Jack as he makes his way up the enchanted beanstalk, but be sure to expect a few surprises along the way - together with wacky costumes and catchy songs. Some of the cast members you should look out for here are Michael Mangion, who will be taking on the coveted role of the Dame; with the splendid Katherine Brown, the unstoppable Joe Depasquale and the talented Rachel Tedesco Triccas finding their voice on the MFCC stage.

Follow the story as jack transitions from zero to hero after his village is attacked by scary giants who have a hankering for Jack’s love interest. Fee-fi-fo-fum!

Sleeping Beauty, FM Productions

The regal stage of the Manoel Theatre will welcome the cast of the FM Productions talent where the story of Sleeping Beauty will unfold. Dame Edward Mercieca’s jovial character will meet the Princess Aurora, the evil Maleficent and other captivating members of the cast for a series of evenings (and matinees) you won’t easily forget.

This slapstick production will have you laughing out loud with Mercieca’s script, Christopher Gatt’s direction and top performances from Tezara Eve Camilleri and Chiara Hyzler. Get ready for some good old panto cheer and the ever present theme of good vs evil.

GAWGAW, A Panto in the Dark, Teatru Malta

New to the scene yet boasting a crew and cast of the most spectacular names in theatre; GAWGAW, A Panto in the Dark is brought to us theatre-loving folk by Teatru Malta. Set in Esplora’s Planetarium Hall, this one-of-a -ind production focuses on a pantomime created for the visually impaired audience.

Set completely in the dark with the theme of il-gawgaw, a Maltese myth that is often told as a bedtime terror to spook the little ones to sleep, this panto will focus on the experience, allowing all members of the audience to enjoy the same performance regardless of visual impairment. Get ready for Chucky Bartolo as Dame, together with Samuel Farrugia, Davinia Hamilton and Joseph Zammit as the cast of this sensory adventure.

Which ever panto you opt for, you won’t be disappointed with the political satire, tongue-in-cheek commentary and family friendly music.