There’s treasure to find, a villain to boo and a pirate crew heading for Arran as Ayr’s Gaiety Theatre prepares to raise the curtain on this year’s Christmas pantomime.
Dick Whittington: A Scottish Pirate Pantomime runs from Friday, November 27, 2026, until Saturday, January 2, 2027, giving the traditional tale a distinctly local flavour. (destinationsouthayrshire.co.uk)
Forget the road to London. This time, Dick has a mysterious treasure map pointing him towards Arran, although anyone expecting a peaceful trip across the water should probably think again.
The fearsome Captain Ratbeard and her troublesome sailors have claimed the Clyde Estuary, and they’re unlikely to welcome visitors with a cup of tea and a biscuit. (destinationsouthayrshire.co.uk)
Fortunately, Dick has some colourful company for the journey, including Forgetful Gibbs, Fairy Flinty, Kitty-Kat-Cathy and Dame Jackie Sparrow. With names like those, what could possibly go wrong?
Ross Baxter takes the title role, while Fraser Boyle appears as Captain Jackie Sparrow and Dani Heron supplies the villainy as Captain Ratbeard. Gregor John-Owen plays Forgetful Gibbs, Colum Findlay is Fairy Flinty and Chiara Sparkes appears as Kitty-Kat-Cathy. (thegaiety.co.uk)
Boyle also returns as writer, with Tom Cooper directing the festive adventure. The production promises pirates, peril and secrets waiting to be uncovered, with Arran providing the destination for this Scottish spin on a panto favourite. (destinationsouthayrshire.co.uk)
Selected performances will offer British Sign Language interpretation, captions, audio description and relaxed arrangements.
Tickets are available through the Gaiety box office on 01292 288235, with matinee and evening performances across the run. Check individual dates for times and accessible performances. (thegaiety.co.uk)
Time to gather your shipmates, practise your loudest boo and get ready for a Christmas voyage. Oh yes it is!