REVIEW: A Fantastic, Fun-Filled Panto for All Ages at The Wyvern Theatre

The Sleeping Beauty pantomime at the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon is an absolute treat from start to finish.

It strikes a brilliant balance between cheeky adult humour, plenty of quick one-liners and innuendos to keep the grown-ups laughing, and the kind of playful kids’ slang and silliness that had the younger audience in stitches. It’s rare to see a panto land so well with both sides of the theatre, but this one pulls it off effortlessly.

The musical numbers are a real highlight. The cast delivers big, upbeat vocals, and the show features a great selection of well-known songs that everyone can clap along to. The energy never drops, and the singing is genuinely impressive, far better than you might expect from a traditional seasonal panto.

Visually, the production is stunning. The set and costume design are colourful, polished, and full of character, giving the whole show that extra sparkle. But the real showstopper is the dragon. It’s massive, bright green, and incredibly well-designed, easily one of the most memorable panto creatures you’ll see on a regional stage. 

Jenny Ryan from The Chase was exceptional as the Wicked Fairy Carabosse. She captured the character perfectly, delivering a brilliantly wicked villain while also giving the audience plenty of laughs. Her vocals were powerful, and every song was impressively performed.

And of course, David Ashley was spot-on as always; it simply wouldn’t be the panto without the dame.

Whether you’re taking the family, going with friends, or just looking for a lively festive night out, this panto is a brilliant choice. Charming, funny, and full of spectacle, Sleeping Beauty at the Wyvern is a proper Christmas crowd-pleaser.

The Sleeping Beauty Panto is on from Thursday 11th December 2025 - Sunday 4th January 2026.

Book tickets HERE!