Sleeping Beauty at Cardiff’s New Theatre: A Sparkling Christmas Pantomime Not to Be Missed
If you’re looking for the perfect family day out in Cardiff this Christmas, look no further than Sleeping Beauty at the Cardiff New Theatre. The Press Night performance lit up the city with festive cheer, riotous laughter, and a heart-warming dose of classic pantomime magic. With a star-studded Welsh cast led by Gethin Jones, Owain Wyn Evans, and the incomparable Mike Doyle, this year’s show is truly one that the whole family will treasure.
“Sleeping Beauty is a must-see for families looking to make unforgettable Christmas memories in Cardiff.”
A Royal Treat with Gethin Jones
Taking to the stage as the heroic Prince Gethin, Gethin Jones brings effortless charm, quick wit, and that signature sparkle Cardiff audiences have always adored. His natural stage presence and warm connection with the audience make him the perfect panto prince — bold, loveable, and brilliantly funny. Every moment he appears earns cheers, giggles, and the occasional “He’s behind you!” from excited little ones.
Owain Wyn Evans: The Spirit of Pantomime
It’s impossible not to grin the moment Owain Wyn Evans sweeps onto the stage as the fabulous Spirit of Pantomime. He delivers charm and charisma by the bucketload, guiding the story with glittering enthusiasm and delightful humour. His comedic timing is impeccable, and his energy fills the entire theatre. With a twinkle in his eye and the driest of one-liners, he keeps both children and grown-ups utterly entertained.
Mike Doyle Steals the Show as Nurse Nellie
A Cardiff panto simply wouldn’t be complete without the legendary Mike Doyle, and this year he outdoes himself as the unforgettable Nurse Nellie. With costumes brighter than a Christmas bauble and jokes that land every single time, Doyle is the beating heart of the production. His rapport with the audience is unmatched, and his comedy keeps the laughter rolling from curtain up to final bow. He’s a true pantomime master, and Cardiff is lucky to have him.
A Magical Cast Bringing the Story to Life
The supporting cast shine just as brightly. Emma Kirk delivers a beautifully sweet and earnest Princess Aurora, enchanting younger audience members with her warmth and sparkle. Jack Ryan as Muddles is pure panto joy, silly, loveable, and constantly getting into mischief. His interactions with the crowd are a highlight, and his energy never dips for a second.
Special mention must go to Jalisa Phoenix-Roberts, whose striking performance as Carabosse is the perfect blend of villainous glamour and wicked comedy. She had the audience booing, hissing, and loving every moment of it.
Festive Fun for the Whole Family
With dazzling costumes, lively dance numbers, catchy songs, and the classic ‘Oh no it isn’t!’ spirit, Sleeping Beauty at the New Theatre delivers everything you want from a Christmas pantomime in Cardiff. The production is packed with festive sparkle, making it the ideal choice for anyone searching for family-friendly Christmas entertainment in Cardiff or planning family days out during the holidays.
Whether you’re a lifelong panto fan or bringing little ones for their very first magical experience, this show promises joy, nostalgia, and plenty of laughs.
The Verdict
The New Theatre panto has once again knocked it out of the park with a pantomime full of heart, humour, and holiday sparkle. Sleeping Beauty is a must-see for families looking to make unforgettable Christmas memories in Cardiff.
Book your tickets here, gather the kids, warm up your best “Boo!” and “He’s behind you!” and prepare for a magical night out.
