By Martin Brisland.
Theatre Royal Winchester has a traditional family panto that is as good as it gets. Puss in Boots has all the elements that make panto such a great traditional entertainment such as good versus evil, audience participation, humour and a fairytale ending.
The story of a cat with extraordinary talents, who is really a fairy in disguise, can be traced back to 16th century Italy.
Written and directed by Robin Belfield, with music by Simon Slater, it is packed with original songs, very corny jokes, live music, and many comic moments. The show even references the current 6 7 craze that is so popular with young people.
Puss in Boots tells the story of Colin (Liam Watson), a poor miller’s son, who has no money, no job, and no chance of impressing the beautiful princess. That is until his faithful cat, Puss (Bekah Selina), proves to be no ordinary feline by turning him from zero to hero to defeat the wicked Fluella Frostbite (Emma Fenney) and win the hand of Princess Claribelle (Jess Lobo).
All the experienced actors were exemplary. Play to the Crowd, the charity who run Theatre Royal and the summer Hat Fair, are to be commended for their community focus in using young local performers who can act, sing or dance to work with the professionals and gain experience.
The dame is brilliantly played by Julian Eardley in his 16th panto season at the theatre.
The sound quality was superb with all the dialogue and songs clearly audible. Jess’s voice had a superb tone.
The whole show was fun from start to the end and the actors were clearly enjoying themselves. Watch out for the towel scene, the 12 Days of Christmas routine, the amazing snowball fight, and the audience singalong. An enthusiastic audience was totally involved.
It was the most fun I have had at a pantomime. Oh no it wasn’t. Oh yes it was!
A brilliant couple of hours to escape from reality in a refurbished four hundred seat Edwardian style Grade II listed theatre. This local gem was saved from demolition in the 1970s and is well worth a visit.
There are also a number of accessible performances of Puss in Boots.
And if you’re looking for a Christmas gift you could treat someone to a Play to the Crowd gift voucher while you’re there.
The panto runs until Sunday 4 January 2026. Tickets from: theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk or call 01962 840 440.
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