Mother Goose: Theatre Royal in Portsmouth invites community to star in this year's panto

Ever wanted to be in a panto? Well now’s your chance...

Ever wanted to tread the boards during a panto? Well now’s your chance.

Local actors are being given the chance to star in panto at the Theatre Royal in Portsmouth. Mother Goose will be staged from December 13 to December 31, and applications for auditions close this weekend.

Adult performers aged 18 and over are invited to audition for a variety of ensemble roles, whether they have years of performing experience or are looking to take to the stage for the first time. Portsmouth Theatres says that Mother Goose will offer “an unforgettable opportunity to be part of one of Portsmouth’s biggest Christmas productions”.

Snow White was the 2025 pantomime at Theatre Royal in Portsmouth placeholder image
Snow White was the 2025 pantomime at Theatre Royal in Portsmouth | Steve Spurgin

Jack Edwards, the deputy chief executive and artistic director of Portsmouth Theatres, said: “The response to our recent community shows has shown just how much talent exists across our city.

“Upcoming show Frozen is already almost sold out and We Will Rock You is heading in the same direction. So, we know there is a healthy appetite from both performers and audiences for these high-quality Portsmouth Theatres productions.

“With Portsmouth Theatres producing pantos across our two theatres, it felt like the perfect opportunity to open one of our festive productions to the community. Pantomime is all about bringing people together, and we’re excited to create a show that not only entertains audiences but also showcases the fantastic talent we have here in Portsmouth.

“Pantomime is a magical part of Christmas and Mother Goose is going to be packed with everything audiences love. If you’ve ever dreamed of performing in panto, this is your chance. We would encourage anyone who has thought about getting involved to apply before applications close.”

The Theatre Royal in Portsmouth has previously staged Aladdin as its Christmas panto - pictured is Widow Twankeyplaceholder image
The Theatre Royal in Portsmouth has previously staged Aladdin as its Christmas panto - pictured is Widow Twankey | Steve Spurgin

Mother Goose will be directed by local pantomime favourites Jack Edwards and Julia Worsley, who have entertained Portsmouth audiences for many years, as well as appearing in the West End, national touring productions and in international theatre, television and film.

Portsmouth Theatres has recently staged community productions including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Full Monty and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, as well as the upcoming Frozen and We Will Rock You.

Applications for Mother Goose close at 11.59pm on Sunday, July 12, and auditions will be held on Sunday, July 26. Information for the juvenile auditions will be announced shortly.

For audition information, the audition pack and to submit an application, see https://www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk/kings-theatre-productions/casting/

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