Christmas on Stage: Guide to Festive Performances in Birmingham
Header Image: © Chris Askey
As the festive season approaches, Birmingham’s stages transform into a constellation of light, music, and imagination. From the gaslit intrigue of Sherlock Holmes and the Twelve Days of Christmas to the dazzling spectacle of Slava’s Snow Show and The Nutcracker, the city’s theatres offer performances that combine artistic excellence with seasonal warmth. Whether you’re after high-energy pantomime, ballet tradition, or contemporary comedy, Birmingham’s cultural calendar this winter celebrates creativity in every form — inviting audiences of all ages to share in the collective joy of live performance.
Each venue adds its own character to the city’s theatrical landscape: the grandeur of the Hippodrome, the international flair of The Alexandra, and the enduring innovation of The Rep. Together, they present a programme that balances nostalgia with originality — honouring time-tested stories while introducing new voices to the stage. Explore the full listings, plan your visit, and make this Christmas one to remember with a night at the theatre.
Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas
Sherlock Holmes and The Twelve Days of Christmas brings a clever twist to the festive season at Birmingham Rep. Set amidst the gaslit glamour of Victorian London, this new comedy whodunnit follows the world’s most famous detective as he investigates a string of mysterious onstage deaths in the West End — where dreams come true and nothing bad ever happens, until now. When performers begin dying mid-scene, Holmes and Watson uncover a strange connection to The Twelve Days of Christmas. The result is a sharp, witty production that combines intrigue, theatrical flair, and seasonal mischief.
Written by The Penny Dreadfuls’ Humphrey Ker and David Reed, with original songs from Sir Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, this world premiere blends classic detective storytelling with the pace and humour of modern theatre. As Holmes races to save French Hens, retrieve Gold Rings and rescue Mother Goose, he’s joined by Dr Watson and rival sleuth Athena Faversham in a case that tests both wit and nerve. Expect quick dialogue, a touch of musical exuberance, and a production that balances parody with genuine affection for Conan Doyle’s enduring creation.
Running from 14 November 2025 to 11 January 2026 at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Sherlock Holmes and The Twelve Days of Christmas offers a fresh alternative to the traditional pantomime. Thoughtful, entertaining, and visually rich, it’s a festive production designed to captivate families, colleagues, and theatre lovers alike — a celebration of both Christmas and the enduring appeal of one of literature’s great detectives.
See show dates and ticket details here.
Slava’s Snow Show
Step into a world of wonder this November as the internationally acclaimed Slava’s Snow Show returns to The Alexandra by popular demand. A multi award-winning global sensation, this mesmerising production fuses theatrical craft, physical comedy, and visual spectacle to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Combining heart and humour with breathtaking stage design, Slava’s Snow Show transforms the theatre into a swirling snowstorm of imagination — a performance that speaks as vividly to adults as it does to children.
Having toured across more than 80 countries — from Paris and Rome to Los Angeles, New York, and Hong Kong — Slava’s Snow Show arrives in Birmingham with the same magical energy that has enchanted audiences worldwide. Each performance invites viewers into a dreamlike landscape of snow and light, culminating in a blizzard that sweeps through the auditorium and leaves spectators quite literally knee-deep in snow. It’s a joyous celebration of play and performance that turns the boundary between stage and audience into a shared moment of childlike wonder.
Performances run at The Alexandra, Suffolk Street Queensway, from 11–15 November 2025, with both matinee and evening shows available. Founded in 1901, The Alexandra remains one of Birmingham’s most storied theatres — the perfect setting for a production that bridges nostalgia and innovation. Whether you’re planning an early festive evening or seeking an unforgettable night of theatre that captures the magic of winter itself, Slava’s Snow Show promises to be a highlight of the city’s Christmas season.
See performance times & ticket info
The Nutcracker
This Christmas, Birmingham Royal Ballet’s legendary production of The Nutcracker returns to the Birmingham Hippodrome, enchanting audiences from Friday 21 November to Saturday 13 December 2025. A timeless festive tradition, Peter Wright’s staging has become an essential part of the city’s cultural calendar, transporting audiences into a world of snowflakes, magic, and music. With Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score performed live and some of the company’s finest dancers in lead roles, it remains one of the most atmospheric and beloved productions in British ballet.
At the heart of the story is young Clara, who receives a mysterious Nutcracker doll at her parents’ lavish Christmas Eve party. As midnight strikes, the toy springs to life, leading her into a dreamscape of duelling soldiers, swirling snow, and a kingdom ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy. Featuring exquisite designs by John Macfarlane and lighting by David Finn, this visually stunning performance combines choreography by Peter Wright, Lev Ivanov, and Vincent Redmon into a spellbinding blend of tradition and theatrical wonder.
With performances running for over three weeks — including relaxed, audio-described, and signed shows — The Nutcracker offers an inclusive way to celebrate the season in Birmingham. Whether attending with family, colleagues, or friends, audiences can expect a production of rare beauty and craft, where every pirouette, snowflake, and note of Tchaikovsky’s score conjures the very essence of Christmas.
View performances and book here.
Peter Pan – The High-Flying Panto Adventure
Peter Pan returns to the Birmingham Hippodrome this Christmas, promising another spectacular season of laughter, adventure, and festive theatre. Following last year’s sold-out success, Birmingham’s own Alison Hammond takes to the stage as The Magical Mermaid, joining panto favourite Matt Slack as Smee for his eleventh consecutive season. They’re joined by Danny Mac as the dashing Captain Hook, Andrew Ryan as the irrepressible Dame, Billie-Kay as Tink, Rhiannon Chesterman as Wendy, and Noah Harrison in the title role of Peter Pan. Together, they lead audiences on a joyous journey to Neverland in one of the city’s most cherished Christmas traditions.
Featuring stunning sets, lavish costumes direct from The London Palladium, and state-of-the-art special effects, this year’s production blends timeless family storytelling with world-class stagecraft. Expect sword fights, slapstick, and a few surprises as Peter, Wendy, and Tink take on the villainous Captain Hook in a high-flying adventure that celebrates courage, friendship, and imagination. It’s pantomime on a grand scale — exuberant, expertly staged, and deeply rooted in Birmingham’s festive calendar.
Running for just over two hours, Peter Pan offers something for everyone aged five and up, with accessible performances and family-friendly timings throughout the season. The Hippodrome’s celebrated panto atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for office outings, family trips, or an evening of light-hearted escapism amid the festive rush. Expect laughter, colour, and the kind of theatrical magic that ensures every generation leaves humming a tune — and maybe believing in fairies, just a little.
Stay updated and book tickets here.
The Rep – Theatre in Birmingham
Birmingham’s theatres come alive this December with a stunning lineup of festive performances, and at the heart of it is The Rep — a cultural anchor in Centenary Square for more than a century. Originally founded by Sir Barry Jackson, The Rep began as a producing theatre creating new shows for Birmingham, and today it continues that mission, nurturing new writing, talent, and bold productions. With three stages in the venue (The House, The Door and The Studio) and outreach beyond its walls, The Rep is more than a theatre — it’s a hub of creative life, commissioning works, hosting touring shows, and connecting deeply with its community.
This December, The Rep joins the city’s broader festive scene, presenting an array of Christmas performances that span pantomime, seasonal musicals, and reimagined classic tales. Whether you’re drawn to whimsical family shows or more sophisticated theatrical offerings, you’ll find something that speaks to your sense of holiday wonder. As you explore the listings, you’ll discover productions that reflect The Rep’s commitment to artistic quality and theatrical diversity, while remaining rooted in Birmingham’s cultural fabric.
If you’re planning your December theatre calendar, The Rep offers a compelling venue to anchor your visits. With its central location, long history of innovation, and dedication to live performance in all its forms — from onstage spectacle to community engagement — it’s a beacon in the city’s seasonal programming. Be sure to check the timetable, book early, and allow yourself the space to lose — and find — yourself in stories at Christmas time.
From timeless classics to bold new productions, Birmingham’s theatres promise a festive season filled with creativity, laughter, and inspiration. Whether you’re booking an evening with colleagues, planning a family outing, or simply seeking a touch of Christmas magic, the city’s stages offer something for everyone. Book early, support local theatre, and experience the best of Birmingham’s cultural scene this winter.