Pantomime in Manchester
Manchester is one of the UK’s best cities for Christmas entertainment and their pantomimes are no exception. The first pantomime in the city was performed in the late 1800s, with the Opera House alone having held over 30 star-studded productions through the years. The iconic venue has been the host to many big names throughout the festive season, such as David Hasselhoff, Craig Revel Horwood and Priscilla Presley.
Pantos in Manchester are typically big-name fairy tales that people of all ages know and love and 2026 promises more of the same. In recent years, audiences have been wowed by Peter Pan, Jack and the Beanstalk, Dick Whittington and more. Book your tickets for a Manchester pantomime this Christmas season!
Dick Whittington - Opera House Manchester
The streets are paved with gold... all the way to the Opera House this Christmas season! Comedy legend Jason Manford and panto fave Ben Nickless are back for another year, bringing Dick Whittington to the people of Manchester. Join Dick as he sets off on a quest for fame, fortune and romance in this classic festive show, which has sets from the London Palladium. With Manford and Nickless on stage, expect a lot of laughs, a lot of fun, and some swashbuckling adventure thrown in for good measure.
5 December 2026 - 3 January 2027.
How Much Are Tickets for Dick Whittington?
Dick Whittington ticket prices at Opera House Manchester start from £15 and there are concessions available for groups, children and seniors on selected dates. Make sure you add a Babes In Arms voucher if you’re bringing a child under the age of 18 months as they can sit on your lap for free. Please keep in mind that a seat will not be allocated for your child if you book a Babes In Arms voucher.
You can add paid extras to your pantomime booking, including a Treat Bundle which includes a house drink or soft drink, ice cream and popcorn; or Priority Access to skip the queues.
Performances in the week before Christmas tend to sell quickly, so book ahead to make sure your festive entertainment is all wrapped up.
Who Is in the Dick Whittington Cast?
Casting for this year's Manchester panto includes Jason Manford as Dick and Ben Nickless as Silly Simon. The duo are back in town for another year of panto, and with double the funny bones, it's set to be the best one yet!
How Long Is the Dick Whittington Pantomime?
The Dick Whittington running time is to be confirmed, but the Manchester panto is usually 2 hours 30 minutes long, with a 20-minute interval.
What Other Pantomimes Are in Manchester in 2026?
Sleeping Beauty at Salford Arts Centre is on from 17 to 24 December this year. Salford Arts Theatre is independently owned and has resident writers and directors, so you’ll be in for a fresh take on the classic pantomime. Or, strictly for grown ups there’s Sleeping With Beauty at the Hope Mill Theatre - an 18+ cheeky twist on a classic panto.
If you don’t mind travelling, there's also Jack and the Beanstalk at Stockport Plaza.