A Christmas Pantomime to Remember: Rapunzel at The Riverfront, Newport

As an arts and culture writer I am lucky to attend many performances throughout the year, but some theatre visits stay with you for very personal reasons. Our recent trip to The Riverfront in Newport to see their 2025 pantomime Rapunzelwas one of those moments. I attended with my husband and our daughter Darla, and from the moment we arrived it felt like the perfect answer to that familiar seasonal search for Christmas family activities in Newport.

The Riverfront is already a much loved cultural venue in the city, but at Christmas it truly comes into its own. The building was buzzing with excitement, full of families, grandparents and children clutching programmes and glowing toys. It felt warm, welcoming and properly festive, exactly what you hope for when planning a family theatre trip during the winter holidays.

The production itself is everything a great pantomime should be. Funny, energetic and full of heart, it manages to entertain children while keeping adults just as engaged. For us as a young family it was such a lovely experience. Darla was completely enchanted, and my husband and I found ourselves laughing, clapping and singing along more than we expected.

Mia Turley brings charm and confidence to the role of Rapunzel, giving the character warmth and spirit that anchors the story. Richard Elis is a brilliant Muddles Wiggins, with comic timing that had the audience in stitches and a gentle rapport with the younger viewers that never felt forced. Gareth Tempest’s Dame Winnie Wiggins is a highlight, expertly balancing humour, audience interaction and that unmistakable pantomime sparkle. Stevie McAvoy clearly relishes the role of the villain Ceridwen, playing it with delicious mischief, while Ryan Owen’s Hector adds energy and heart. Mandifadza Mupita as Tylwyth Teg and Elin Phillips as Gruff complete a cast that works beautifully together, creating a lively and inclusive stage world.

The songs were a particular joy. Catchy, familiar and well performed, they had us all dancing in our seats. Watching Darla bounce along to the music, completely absorbed, was a reminder of how powerful live theatre can be for children. It is not just entertainment, it is a shared experience that creates memories.

What also stands out is how accessible this pantomime feels. Whether you are a regular theatre goer or looking for things to do with kids at Christmas in Newport, this production meets you where you are. The jokes land across generations, the story is easy to follow, and the atmosphere encourages participation without ever feeling overwhelming.

Running from 27 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, Rapunzel at The Riverfront is perfectly timed for the festive season. It makes an ideal Christmas treat, a holiday outing, or even a first theatre experience for young children. As a family friendly event in Newport, it is hard to imagine a better option.

Beyond the show itself, The Riverfront deserves praise as a venue. Staff are welcoming and helpful, the space feels comfortable for families, and there is a real sense that this is a theatre rooted in its community. It is the kind of place where you feel happy bringing your children, knowing they are being introduced to culture in a joyful and inclusive way.

Leaving the theatre, Darla was still singing snippets of songs and talking about her favourite characters. That, to me, is the mark of a successful pantomime. It stays with you after the curtain falls.

If you are searching for festive things to do in Newport, planning Christmas activities with children, or simply want a joyful night out that will lift your spirits, I wholeheartedly recommend Rapunzel at The Riverfront. It is magical, welcoming and full of seasonal cheer, and for our family it was a Christmas theatre experience we will remember fondly for a long time.

To get your tickets to Rapunzel at The Riverfront click here!