If you are looking for festive magic this Christmas, Swansea Grand Theatre has delivered it in style with Aladdin, now showing until Sunday 4 January 2026.
From the moment the curtain goes up, you are swept away into the mystical world of Swanseabah. The digital and animated set once again plays a huge role, bringing the show to life with bright visuals, fast scene changes and a real sense of scale. It feels modern and immersive, and it instantly grabs the attention of younger audiences, who are completely locked in from start to finish.
The cast is packed with experience, and that really shows. Joe Pasquale needs very little introduction. With a career spanning decades across television, stand up and theatre, he is one of the most recognisable faces in British comedy. From The Price Is Right to I’m A Celebrity and countless stage roles, he knows exactly how to work a live audience. His comic timing is spot on, and his trademark high pitched voice is a guaranteed hit with the kids.
Kev Johns returns to the Grand as Mona Mankey, and once again proves why he is such a firm favourite with Swansea audiences. A true local legend, Kev’s career covers drama, comedy, musicals and pantomime, and this year marks his 33rd year in panto and his 27th at Swansea Grand. He controls the stage effortlessly, delivers big laughs, and keeps the energy high throughout. The audience reaction every time he appears says it all, and the ever growing collection of bold and glamorous outfit changes only adds to the fun.
Celyn Cartwright brings strong vocals and warmth to the show. A proud Welsh performer from North Wales, she has trained at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. Her musical theatre background really shines through, especially in the bigger numbers, and she feels completely at home on the Grand’s stage.
JG Daniels-White takes on the role of Aladdin with confidence and charm. With experience across musical theatre, he brings a playful energy to the character and connects well with the audience, particularly younger viewers.
Freya Humberstone brings elegance and grace to Princess Jasmine. Despite this being her first ever pantomime, she delivers a polished performance, backed by strong dance and musical theatre training. She carries the role with confidence and adds a real sense of class to the production.
Andrew Fleming clearly enjoys himself as the villain Sven Gali. Known widely for his impressionist work, including being a finalist on Britain’s Got Talent, Andrew uses his talents cleverly throughout the show. His impressions of Simon Cowell, Tom Jones, Scooby Doo, Donald Trump and Cilla Black are worked into the script naturally, giving the character a unique edge and plenty of laughs along the way.
One of the most talked about elements of this year’s panto is the digital appearance of Michael Sheen as the Genie of the Lamp. The way this has been incorporated is genuinely clever and feels fresh rather than gimmicky. It is something you rarely see in pantomime, and it adds a real sense of surprise and magic to the production.
As expected, the show is packed with classic panto ingredients. There is plenty of audience participation, lots of booing and hissing, slapstick comedy and musical numbers that will be stuck in your head long after you leave. The magic carpet moments are particularly impressive, and they are always met with gasps and cheers from the audience.
Telling a story like Aladdin on stage is no easy task, but Imagine Theatre and Swansea Grand Theatre have done a brilliant job. You get all the familiar moments, the cave of treasures, the bustling streets of Swanseabah, a mix of classic and modern songs, and plenty of panto comedy layered throughout.
It is also great to see Swansea putting its own stamp on the production. The local references land well, Welsh talent is proudly showcased, and even the sponsor mentions, this year Nathaniel Cars, are slipped in with humour and subtlety.
This is Aladdin with a Swansea twist, and it works beautifully. Fun, fast paced, visually impressive and full of heart, it is the perfect festive treat for families.
Tickets start from £21. This is one Christmas panto you do not want to miss, so booking early is highly recommended.
Find out more and book tickets at swanseagrand.co.uk.
