Dick Whittington Starring CBeebies’ Let’s Play actress Rebecca Keatley in the title role, and Channel 5’s Milkshake! presenter Jen Pringle as the magical Fairy of the Bells, the show will feature 18 top-class theatre professionals, alongside 24 of the best young talent from the area. The traditional panto approach is to shipwreck Dick in Morocco after suffering a maritime storm, but with the upcoming Rio World Cup and Olympics, the story has been spiced up with a thrilling Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired sequence, landing Dick on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro during the exciting Carnival. Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, December 6 until January 5. Details: 01279 431945, playhouseharlow.com 

Potted Panto Seven classic pantomimes in 80 frenetic minutes! Double Olivier nominees Dan and Jeff return for a third festive season of Potted Panto, hot on the heels of their recent world tour of Potted Potter. In a madcap ride through the biggest stories and best-loved characters from panto, the double act dash from rubbing Aladdin’s lamp to roaming the golden streets of Dick Whittington’s London. Searching for Cinderella’s lost slipper, they try to wake Sleeping Beauty before the giant climbs down Jack’s beanstalk to squash Snow White’s seven dwarves. Vaudeville Theatre, Strand, Covent Garden, December 8 to January 5. Details: 0844 482 9675, vaudevilletheatre.org.uk 

Puss in Boots Puss arrives in the merry Kingdom of Hackneyonia E8 to gain wealth and power for his master – expect laughs and sparks as the loveable rogue defeats all the odds and wins the day. There will be the usual Hackney fare of show-stopping songs, dazzling dance routines, knockabout comedy and bags of audience participation. Hackney Empire, Mare Street, Hackney, November 23 until January 5. Details: 020 8985 2424, hackneyempire.co.uk

Dick Whittington Expect lots of laughter, silly songs and a sack full of festive fun in this raucous new version of the classic tale. Someone has told Dick that the streets of Stratford are paved with Olympic gold. Join him and his faithful cat as they seek their fortunes in the East End and try to overthrow the evil Rat King. Theatre Royal Stratford East, Gerry Raffles Square, Stratford, November 23 to January 11. Details: 020 8534 0310, stratfordeast.com

Cinderella The most magical fairytale of them all, in the very heart of London, brought to you by a top-quality West End cast, live band, stunning sets, glittering costumes and buckets of audience participation. Shaw Theatre, Euston Road, NW1, December 13 to 31. Details: 0844 2485075, shaw-theatre.com