The Adventures of Pinocchio - A fantastic family night out….oh no it isn’t…..Oh yes, it definitely is!!

If you’re looking for a festive treat this winter, look no further than The Adventures of Pinocchio at the Grand Opera House, Belfast, running from 29th November 2025 to 11th January 2026. Sponsored by Dale Farm. Having attended my fair share of pantos over the years since I was a wee lad, I can confidently say this one is a cracker!

First up, let’s talk about the legend herself, May McFettridge. With a stunning 35 years of panto experience under her belt, she’s back as May Geppetto, and she didn’t disappoint! May’s knack for cheeky gags and witty jabs at audience members keeps everyone on their toes. Honestly, the atmosphere she creates is just electric!

Now, here’s a little nugget I picked up during the show: the cast only gets two weeks of rehearsal before diving into a full dress rehearsal and a charity night. Can you believe that?! It’s mind-blowing how polished everything is, considering the short prep time. If it were me, I’d probably forget my own name!

I brought a couple of friends who had never experienced a panto before, and their daughter was absolutely spellbound! Watching her sing and shout along with gleeful abandon was a delight; kids’ laughter really does warm your heart, don’t you think?!

The story itself is timeless, Pinocchio, the wooden puppet whose nose grows when he tells lies. This panto puts a lovely twist on it by swapping the toy maker Geppetto for May Geppetto, giving her the spotlight she so richly deserves. Alongside panto regular Paddy Jenkins, who plays Jiminy Cricket, and Adam C. Booth in the title role, it is very evident to see that these three have gelled superbly over their years performing panto in Belfast together, feeding off each other's gags, tricks even going off script at times.

Expect a whirlwind of gags, comical sketches, and catchy rhyming songs. You know the classics “Oh no, he isn’t!” and “Oh yes, he is!” mixed in with playful boos for the villain, The Great Stromboli, played by Jolene O’Hara, who nails her part and her Italian accent. Philippa O’Hara and Meave Byrne are the perfect panto henchmen, or in this case, henchwomen, Phyllis the Fox and Kitty the Cat and Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli absolutely dazzles as the Blue Fairy.

The staging is absolutely phenomenal too! From dazzling LED screen storybooks and even a spinning plane flying over the audience with Pinocchio strapped in, it's really a feast for the eyes.

Lighting and pyrotechnics? Absolutely on point! Musical Director Philip Shute has crafted a superb selection of songs that really carry the show. Plus, let’s not forget the costumes, camp, sparkly, dazzling, and bursting with colour. The ensemble truly brought the story to life through their vibrant dance and movement.

If you’re anything like me, it’s never too early to book your tickets for this festive spectacle. With over 75,000 folks attending the Grand Opera House pantomime each year, you won’t want to miss out on this joyous event.

The Adventures of Pinocchio is a show full of laughter, beautiful music, and magical moments, expertly brought to life by the same creative team that has delighted audiences with past productions like Peter Pan and Snow White.

A couple of notes for those thinking of bringing the wee ones: the show is recommended for ages 3 and up. Just keep in mind that it can be a bit loud and some scenes are designed to be a tad scary; it’s all part of the panto magic! The show duration is 2 hours with an interval included.  Don’t forget to get your yummy Dale Farm ice creams during the interval as an extra treat for this family night out.

So gather your family and friends, hop along to the Grand Opera House, and prepare for a festive adventure that's guaranteed to end with everyone singing “happily ever after.”

Tickets and Further information can be found at www.goh.co.uk