Festive extravaganza as panto stars from Kings Theatre put on wonderful show at Queens Hotel

Dick Whittington has taken the Kings Theatre by storm this year as hundreds of people flock to get a glimpse at the annual Christmas panto. To celebrate the festive season, the Kings at the Queens extravaganza event has taken place for the second time after an incredibly successful evening last year.

Eastenders star Lorraine Stanley, George Sampson of Britain’s Got Talent fame and the fabulous panto dame extraordinaire, Jack Edwards, were joined by fellow cast members of the 2024 Pompey Panto. The cast put on a fabulous show at The Queens Hotel in aid of Portsmouth Pride which is an inclusive and diverse event taking place on June 7, 2025. Any money raised from the Kings at the Queens event will go towards the event which was attended by thousands of people last year.

Paul Playford, general manager of Queens Hotel, said: “It’s fabulous to see the cast putting on a show and its an opportunity to see the stars up close and personal.

"2025 will be the year that Portsmouth will be the UK City of Pride and we are so looking forward to playing our part in what promises to be an amazing year of festivities for the city.”

Richard Pearce, CEO at the Kings Theatre, said: “The Kings Theatre and Queens Hotel are two of Portsmouth’s most iconic and much-loved buildings. Both organisations have experienced a renaissance over the last few years. And we are investing significantly to return the buildings to their original splendour and provide amazing customer experiences.

“The organisations are keen to be viewed as City Treasures. We want to help one another to ensure long term sustainability.

“And we have the shared desire to help as many of the city’s charities and organisations where they can make a difference. The Kings at the Queens is all about showcasing these city treasures; bringing greater awareness to a local charity; and enjoying a festive family evening.”

Here are 9 wonderfully festive pictures from Kings at the Queens: