Are you ready for SLEEPING BEAUTY?

The countdown is on (oh yes it is!) as the Gatehouse prepares for a spell-binding family treat this festive season as Sleeping Beauty takes to the stage from 05 December 2025 to 04 January 2026.

When the wicked fairy’s evil curse causes the Princess to prick her finger on a spinning wheel and fall into an enchanted sleep, can anyone rescue her from the magical slumber before it is too late?

Your Stafford Panto favourites are reunited for more festive fun and mischief as BAFTA award-winning presenter and Pop Idol finalist Mark Rhodes leads the cast as Hilarious Harry alongside musical theatre star David Phipps-Davis, bringing bucket-loads of laughs as the larger-than-life Nurse Nora Knickerbocker whilst wicked sorceress Carabosse, played by Samantha Spragg, will be stirring up trouble ready for your biggest ‘boo’s!

Taking centre stage in the title role is Soleil Quarless, hoping to win the heart of Prince Rufus played by Finlay McKillop. Ian Billings joins as King Louis while Emily Vinnicombe brings an extra sprinkle of panto magic as Fairy Flutterby.

The all-singing all-dancing ensemble includes Matilda Gaughan, Alexander Harry, Sophie Hirst and Danny Prescott-Watts and a cast of talented local youngsters to bring the magical fairytale to life, promising a show full of laughter and festive fun for the whole family.

Mark said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be coming back to the Gatehouse with this wonderful cast. We had such a fun time last year and I think this year will be even better. Here’s to the best Christmas Stafford and a wonderful panto experience!”

Gatehouse General Manager Gary Stevens said: 'We can't wait for the people of Stafford and beyond to join us for this magical family pantomime. We believe in traditional panto, with jokes for young and old, backed by a superb professional cast and loads of great music. It's the perfect family night out and a real festive tradition.'

Sleeping Beauty is Written and Produced by the award-winning Imagine Theatre.  It is directed by Scott Le Crass with Choreography by Verity Bray.  Clive Fishlock is Musical Director with Musical Arrangements by Steve Clark. LX Design is by Barry Smith with Sound Design by Kate Harvey.

In a show packed with dazzling costumes, laugh-a-minute antics, loads of audience interaction, catchy songs, and classic panto magic, this year’s production is set to be Staffordshire’s ultimate festive family treat.

Book NOW and join us for the best family night out of the year.