Dick Whittington (Pantomime)
Jason Manford and Ben Nickless lead Manchester's big Christmas pantomime.
Overview
Manchester's Opera House puts on one of the North West's biggest pantomimes every year, and this season's Dick Whittington is led by Manchester favourite Jason Manford alongside Ben Nickless, promising the usual mix of slapstick, singalongs and local in-jokes.
Pantomime season is one of the most reliably fun, low-stakes family outings on the UK theatre calendar — arrive early for the pre-show atmosphere, which is often part of the fun.
Visitor information
The Opera House is in Manchester city centre on Quay Street, with a range of casual dining options nearby for a pre-show meal.
Getting there
Deansgate-Castlefield tram stop and Deansgate rail station are both around a 10-minute walk; several bus routes serve the city centre.
Age guidance
Panto is designed for all ages, including very young children — it's one of the most family-friendly formats in UK theatre.
Accessibility
The venue offers wheelchair spaces, an induction loop and a relaxed performance on selected dates for neurodivergent audiences and those who benefit from a less strict theatre environment.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dick Whittington suitable for toddlers?
Pantomime is generally considered suitable from a young age, though very small children may find the noise and lighting overwhelming for a full performance.
How long does the panto run?
Typically around 2 hours 15 minutes including an interval, though exact timing varies by performance.