But if you want to be a Scrooge, just like me, you can still find the odd non-festive show too. Check it out..
Manchester’s Pantomines
Starting off with some festive cheer of course there are plenty of pantomines doing the rounds throughout the region this December. Check out our list of all of the best ones right here…
Manchester’s Must-See Pantomimes this Christmas 2018
Stick Man @ The Lowry
Until Sunday 6th January
A delightful adaptation of Scamp Theatre’s original, Stick Man, this award-winning production returns to The Lowry this Christmas.
Wicked @ Palace Theatre
From Tuesday 4th December – Saturday 5th January 2019
One of the most successful Broadway shows has found its way to the Palace Theatre. The story predates ‘The Wizard of Oz’ about the unlikely friendship between the Witches of the East and West (before one went ‘Wicked’, geddit?)
The Producers @ The Royal Exchange Theatre
From Thursday 6th December – Saturday 26th January 2019
Adapted from the truly brilliant Mel Brooks film, The Producers follows theatre producer Maz Bialystock and his attempt at creating the worst show ever…with some accidental swistikas.
Cinderella @ Opera House
From Saturday 8th December – Saturday 30th December
Here’s a panto for Christmas but not even Christmas themed AND Gareth Gates is in it! What more do you need?
Doctor Doolittle @ The Lowry
From Thursday 11th December – Saturday 5th January 2019
Based on the Rex Harrison film (although was begging for it to be the Eddie Murphy version), the musical stage show is made by the producers of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. No child catchers though and that’s kind of dull.
Love Actually with Live Orchestra @ Bridgewater Hall
Tuesday 11th December
It can’t be denied this is still one of the best Christmas films going with a brilliant soundtrack to match, so now you can enjoy a full orchestra playing the hits.
The Hallé: The Snowman @ Bridgewater Hall
Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th December
Everyone’s favourite Christmas cartoon comes to life at the Bridgewater Hall with the help of the Hallé orchestra and a bloke in a snow suit. THe first half of the concert will also feature a trip on the Polar Express, and a visit to Dinosaurumpus.
The Frou Frou Club @ 53Two
Saturday 15th December
An evening of the finest burlesque known to man, The Frou Frou Club will feature plenty of sexy dancing, cabaret, variety and even a live band. As you can imagine, it’s strictly over 18’s only so don’t bring your 13 year old niece to this one.
New Year’s Eve at the Movies @ Bridgewater Hall
Monday 31st December
Join Manchester Camerata as they perform songs from all your favourite films including E.T., Star Wars, Jurassic Park, Titanic and West Side Story.