The Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre is thrilled to announce the return of beloved panto favourite Gareth Tempest for this year’s festive production of Rapunzel, marking 20 magical years of pantomime at the heart of Newport’s Christmas celebrations.
Running from 27 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, Rapunzel promises to be a hair-raising adventure full of mischief, magic, and mayhem! Audiences can expect the full panto experience – from jaw-dropping costumes and glittering sets to toe-tapping tunes and plenty of laughs.
This milestone year is made even more special with Gareth Tempest stepping back into his much-loved Dame heels. Having first performed at The Riverfront in 2005’s Dick Whittington as part of the Young Company, Gareth’s return as Dame is a full-circle moment.
Gareth shared: “For me, panto is so important, not only because for many it’s their first experience of theatre, but because it’s one of the rare forms of theatre that actively engages the audience and gives them a sense of ownership and responsibility over the story. At a time when young people are used to instant connection and engagement, it’s wonderful to be able to offer this same feeling of connection in the stories we tell.
Having had the pleasure of working at The Riverfront for several festive seasons, it brings me so much joy to be a part of a company and team whose sole focus is to make the most magical and entertaining show for their audiences as possible. Besides, everyone in Newport knows, nothing says Christmas like The Riverfront panto.”
This year’s production of Rapunzel invites audiences into a magical world. When Rapunzel discovers the truth of her past, she realises her future is unwritten & the race is on to break a spell and find her freedom.
Creative Development Manager, Jamie Anderson adds: “Reaching our 20th pantomime is a landmark moment. Panto has always been at the heart of what we do – it’s more than just a show, it’s a tradition, a community event, and for many young people, it’s their first spark of theatrical magic. I very much believe it to be one of the most formative and important parts of our theatrical culture. To have Gareth (and more) return this year, someone who began their journey on our very stage, feels incredibly fitting and marks a truly special season. We’ve come to love Gareth’s anarchic and mischievous dame – he’s woven into the very heart of our panto tradition.”
Rapunzel is set to deliver everything audiences have come to love about The Riverfront’s pantomimes – high-energy performances, hilarious comedy, family-friendly fun, and unforgettable memories.
Join us this festive season and let your hair down (quite literally) as we celebrate two decades of panto magic at The Riverfront Theatre!
With more cast announcements coming soon, The Riverfront’s 2025/2026 pantomime is one not to be missed. Book your tickets today: newportlive.co.uk/rapunzel
