Pinocchio

Celebrating 18 years at the Theatre Royal, Danny Adams stars as Pinocchio in a spectacular new pantomime adventure making its premiere here in Newcastle.

With Clive Webb as toymaker Geppetto, Newcastle’s own Joe McElderry as Jiminy Cricket and Chris Hayward returning to the side of good as Dame Rita.

The cast will also feature returning favourites Mick Potts, Wayne Smith, Kylie Ann Ford and Christina Berriman Dawson along with West End performer Amelia Walker.

Join Danny as he transforms from the famous puppet to a real boy and get ready to see his nose grow every time he tells a lie!

It’s no ‘acciduuunt’ the Theatre Royal panto is ‘the quickest selling pantomime in the UK’. With brand-new sets and costumes we’d be lying if we said this isn’t going to be our best panto yet!

Pinocchio will be brought spectacularly to life in a sumptuous production packed with special effects, family-friendly comedy, stunning sets and outrageous costumes.  We want to make the experience accessible for all our audiences, thanks to two relaxed performances.

Relaxed performances are perfect for any theatregoer or family who would benefit from a more relaxed environment. These performances allow for noise and movement in the auditorium, re-entry when needed and a special chill-out space for patrons who may need time away during a show.

Many theatregoers find these performances more relaxing and enjoyable for lots of reasons. This would include families with young children, as well as customers with autism, a learning disability, dementia, anxiety or other medical condition which mean sitting or concentrating for long periods of time without moving can be difficult.

Lighting and special effects are slightly altered, with strobe and flashing lights being removed and very loud noises being dulled or omitted, however the content of the show remains the same.

“Many disabled children and particularly those with autism are more sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights and generally too much unexpected stimulation. The pantomime can be an experience they long for but they can be disturbed by sudden sounds. By providing a relaxed performance these children and their families have the opportunity to enjoy the magic of pantomime without the anxiety of the unexpected.”
Helen Milner, Chief Executive, Northeast Special Needs Network

“I am absolutely delighted that Newcastle Theatre Royal are taking this step towards making the theatre an experience that can be enjoyed by more and more people including those on the autistic spectrum and those who have communication, learning or sensory needs. Going to a pantomime is an experience that many children and adults look forward to and enjoy during the winter season and this relaxed and supportive session should make it possible for even more to take part.”
Angela Slater, Equalities Coordinator at Time To Change

The Theatre Royal is very proud to announce that we are the first UK Theatre to have been honoured with the Autism Access Award by the National Autistic Society.

Book early, secure your seat today