Top 5 Christmas shows in the West Midlands

Discover amazing shows by bus this Christmas

Christmas is almost upon us - and with theatres finally in full swing, families across the Midlands will get to experience festive shows on their doorstep.

As a playwright, radio presenter and drama facilitator at the Birmingham Hippodrome and National Theatre, I’m always on the lookout for new shows that will thoroughly entertain children and families. It’s also really important to spotlight regional theatre that can be accessed easily by National Express Coventry buses, which is both friendly on the pocket and the environment, too.

With shows debuting in Coventry, Birmingham, Walsall and Wolverhampton, I am beyond excited to share with you my must-watch Christmas performance list of 2021!

Plan your journey to any of the theatres, using this journey planning tool.

Beauty And The Beast – The Belgrade Theatre Coventry

The Belgrade Theatre is back with a timeless classic that will appeal to all ages. Written by and starring Coventry native, Iain Laughlin, the story follows Belle, a beautiful young woman who is captured by a scary beast (who is secretly a prince under a ghastly spell which changes his appearance).

As well as it being a majestic pantomime that will stun audiences across the region, it also has wholesome morals that will stand the test of time. With a mix of relaxed, socially distanced and ‘chilled’ performances, this show will be an instant hit and really spark the beginnings of a magical Christmas!

Dates: Weds 24th November 2021 – Sat 8th January 2022

Visit the Belgrade website for tickets and more.

Cinderella – Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

Families will be grinning from ear to ear after watching this take on an age-old fairy tale. Cinderella, starring AJ and Curtis Pritchard (Hollyoakes), is based on the original story of a servant girl under the rule of her evil stepmother. With ‘dazzling choreography’ alongside catchy musical numbers, this is set to be a guaranteed win for family audiences.

Like the Belgrade, there’s also a mix of different performances and admissions that will suit your family’s need, including ‘babes in arms’ tickets, which is a £3 entry fee for children that can sit on their parent’s lap, making it easier on the pocket and creating an intimate, tender environment for families in the audience.

Cinderella “Promises to be the best pantomime in the West Midlands” and best of all? It’s nestled right in the centre of Wolverhampton.

Dates: Sat 4th December 2021 – Sun 9th January 2022

Visit the Grand Theatre website for tickets and more.

James And The Giant Peach – The Crescent Theatre, Birmingham

Adapted from the legendary children’s book ‘James and the Giant Peach’ by Roald Dahl, David Wood has created an adventurous performance to thrill audiences of all ages! The story follows James, a young boy in the care of his monstrous aunts, who accidentally spills a bag of magic by a peach tree.

This performance is bound to capture the imagination of little ones and to bring a gleeful cheer to all in attendance. We’ll also see some of the iconic characters from the book such as Centipede, Earthworm and Grasshopper grace the stage. A breath-taking show in the heart of Birmingham.

Dates: Tues 7th- Tues 14th December 2021

Visit the Crescent Theatre website for tickets and more.

Snow White – Walsall Arena

The wondrous tale of Snow White is back with a modern twist which will have audiences roaring with laughter and leave being filled with an infectious, festive joy.

The storyline follows the beautiful princess Snow White and the evil Queen who desperately wants a prestigious ‘Queeny’ award. The show also includes new characters such as “bonkers Butler Bumble”, catering manager Eileen Pies and dance master Madame DeTango, whilst also making room for the original line up of the seven dwarfs. The show promises singing, dancing and a collection of jokes to lift the spirits of the audience. This is one not to miss!

Dates: Fri 10th - Sun 19th December 2021

Visit the Walsall Arena website for tickets and more.

One snowy night – The MAC Birmingham

Fuzzy puppets, sing-along music and a wholesome cast are the perfect ingredients for a stellar Christmas show. Adapted from the enchanting children’s book ‘One Snowy Night’ by Nick Butterworth, Percy the park keeper is disturbed out of his sleep by a few furry neighbours seeking somewhere warm to stay.

The show is great for all ages, especially families who have little ones aged four and above. It’s impossible not to smile when watching such joy and creativity being performed and with their first showcase debuting on Tuesday 16th November, it’s the perfect way to kick start the Christmas season.

Dates: Tues 16th Nov – Tues 28th Dec 2021

Visit the MAC website for tickets and more.

Many thanks to Ashlee for her amazing recommendations in this blog. You can find her on all social media platforms at @lolounplugged. Whichever of Ashlee's picks you choose to see, don't forget you can tap all day and never overpay with our contactless payment capped tickets. Forget the stress of travel and enjoy the bus for less.