Look behind you! Yes, it’s that time of year again, when outrageous costumes, dodgy celebrities and time honoured audience participation come together in the unique form of art that is the panto. Cynicism aside, Christmas pantomimes in London and other London theatre performances remain a great way of getting into the swing of things during the festive season. See below for a pick of family theatre shows this Christmas.

Christmas fun
Usually held at smaller theatre venues outside of central London, pantomimes remain continually popular among kids and adults alike. Londoners can get into the festive spirit and make as much noise as possible in the process at Christmas pantomimes in London for Christmas 2011.

Family friendly shows
A wide selection of family-friendly theatre shows are taking place at theatre venues throughout central London, offering an alternative to the festive pantomime experience.

Theatre tickets
For an alternative to Christmas pantomimes, London has a wide range of theatre shows to choose from suitable for children and family audiences. See below for a pick of the best family shows ready to be enjoyed this Christmas.
Theatre Tickets

Christmas pantomimes

Jack and the Beanstalk
Jack and the Beanstalk at the Shaw Theatre, will enchant and delight audiences with the famous story of dear old Jack, the magic beans, the golden goose and the big beanstalk in style. This version promises to be every bit as hilarious as the Shaw Theatre pantomimes usually are, so settle down for some fun and laughs. From 6th December - 31st December 2011.
Jack and The Beanstalk Tickets

The Snowman
A boy's snowman comes to life and together they travel to meet Father Christmas in this favourite childhood story at the Peacock Theatre. Featuring the original songs from Howard Blake, The Snowman will have you walking in the air in no time. From 1st December 2010 - 9th January 2011.
Snowman Tickets

Dick Whittington
The New Wimbledon Theatre continue their much-loved annual pantomime with a panto version of the classic tale, Dick Whittington. Fun for all the family, this is one Christmas Panto London audiences will certainly want to try and see - especially seeing as it features Dame Edna Everage. Runs from 9th December 2011 - 15th January 2012.
Dick Whittington Tickets

The Gruffalo
It's not really a pantomime but it is a great way to treat the kinds to a hugely popular children's classic. Telling the story of little Mouse and his meeting with the mighty Gruffalo, this acclaimed Tall Stories production is sure to be a lot of fun. Runs from 24th November 2010 - 16th January 2011.
Gruffalo Tickets

Cinderella
Proving that Cinderella is one of the most traditional Christmas pantomime shows, the Hackney Empire will be bringing some hilarious laughs. Stars of stage and screen are on hand to give this a musical makeover in what promises to be one of the panto season highlights. Runs from 26th November 2011 – 8th January 2012.
Cinderella Tickets

Potted Panto
CBBC’s Dan and Jeff hilariously condense a season's worth of panto performances into one hour in what has become one of the capital's best-loved ways to kick Christmas off. Runs from 18th December 2011 - 8th January 2012.
Potted Panto Tickets

Aladdin
The Beck Theatre continues its tradition of putting on brilliant pantos with its production of Aladdin, which sees their firm festive favourite, Mark Jones, return to play Wishee Washee.
Aladdin Tickets

Theatre Royal Stratford East Panto
The Theatre Royal Stratford East will be bringing their acclaimed version of Cinderella back to the capital. It's the only pantomime ever to have been nominated for an Olivier Award, don't you know.
Theatre Royal Stratford East Pantomime Tickets

For further information on Christmas pantomimes in London and London theatre tickets, click the links above.