Panto fever incoming! Here’s your festive guide to this year’s pantomimes across Malta & Gozo
It wouldn’t be a Maltese Christmas without a trip to the theatre: that magical moment when the curtain rises, the jokes start rolling, and the entire family bursts into giggles. Whether you’re into classic fairy-tale chaos, traditional Maltese humour, or cheeky adults-only twists, there’s a panto out there with your name on it.
This festive season, theatres across Malta and Gozo are buzzing with colour, comedy and over-the-top characters. Here’s a line-up of some of the pantomimes hitting the stage this Christmas – perfect for families, friends, and anyone who loves a good ‘Oh no it isn’t!’ moment.
The one in Gozo
Gozo’s most electrifying Christmas tradition is back — and this year, it’s louder, wilder and funnier than ever! The beloved Rock ’n’ Roll Panto returns with Robin Hood & the Babes in the Wood, featuring the iconic Edward Mercieca as the show’s fabulously over-the-top Dame. Expect big laughs, bigger guitar riffs, outrageous costumes and a whirlwind story packed with cheeky twists. With a cast of actor-musicians who’ll have you clapping, singing and rocking along, this is panto like you’ve never seen it.
The one with the iconic Dame
MADC returns to Teatru Salesjan with a sparkling new twist on the beloved classic Snow White — a panto bursting with magic, mischief and festive fun for all ages. Written by Alan Montanaro (who’s back in heels as Dame!) and directed by Stephen Oliver, this year’s show promises big laughs for grown-ups, wide-eyed wonder for kids, and plenty of that signature MADC charm. With a stellar cast, dazzling sets, fabulous costumes and lively choreography, Snow White is set to light up Sliema this Christmas season in true panto style.
The one at the national theatre
This Christmas, Teatru Manoel welcomes Ali Baba, presented by the Masquerade Theatre Company: a laugh-filled, music-packed panto bursting with adventure, mischief and dazzling spectacle. Complete with toe-tapping tunes, brilliant comedy, vibrant costumes and even a tap-dancing camel, this year’s production follows the fearless Ali Baba as he takes on the Forty Thieves in a feel-good family treat for all ages. Directed by Anthony Bezzina and created by a stellar team — writer Malcolm Galea, musical director Kris Spiteri, choreographer Valerie Burke and set designer Matthew Cassar — Ali Baba promises audiences all the sparkle, charm and chaos of a classic Manoel panto.
The one in drag
After last year’s smash-hit sensation, the Voice of Love Island and Malta’s most iconic drag queen returns with a brand-new solo panto twist on Jack and the Beanstalk. Written and directed by multi-award-winning Vikesh Godhwani, this larger-than-life spectacle follows Jack and his fierce sister SLAYYY as they climb a magical beanstalk that erupts in the middle of their quiet village - only to face a terrifying giant waiting above. Expect pop anthems, dazzling lip-syncs, hilarious audience interaction, over-the-top costumes, and pure festive chaos.
The traditional one
This festive season, the Mediterranean Conference Centre transforms into a world of colour, chaos, and classic Maltese humour. Expect hilarious twists, larger-than-life characters, catchy songs, and all the cheeky jokes that make the Maltese panto season a yearly favourite. Perfect for families, kids, and anyone who loves a good laugh, this festive show brings Alice’s iconic adventure to life with a uniquely Maltese sparkle.
The cheeky one
Get ready for a hilarious Maltese twist on a beloved tale! Korps Brajd, this year’s Christmas pantomime at the St Aloysius College Theatre, brings comedy, chaos and plenty of cheeky local humour to the stage. Expect larger-than-life characters, quick-fire jokes, colourful costumes and that classic panto magic the whole family loves.
Which of these tickles your festive fancy?