Pinocchio: The Panto 2026 | Hong Kong Players Christmas Show

The wonderful Hong Kong Players stage three to four productions a year, but it’s their festive season show that Hong Kong families have come to treasure as a proper Christmas tradition. For 2026, the company brings its trademark wit, wordplay and wonderfully silly charm to Pinocchio, a laugh-out-loud, heart-warming pantomime for audiences of every age.

Book your Panto tickets here

Adapted from the much-loved tale by Italian author Carlo Collodi, and immortalised by the 1940 Disney film, Pinocchio follows one of the most recognisable characters in literary history. In this cheeky reimagining, a pair of magical fairies stumble upon Geppetto, a lonely woodworker longing for a family. They set about granting his wish, then promptly bring the wrong creation to life, turning one of his puppets into a walking, talking, trouble-finding wooden boy. Can Geppetto get to grips with fatherhood, or will Pinocchio be tempted away by the bright lights and big promises of the world outside?

Expect an action-packed romp stuffed with lovable characters, larger-than-life dames, toe-tapping singalongs (oh yes, you will join in), and more twists and turns than the Wilson Trail. With gleeful comedy, dazzling energy and a fresh spin on a classic story, Pinocchio: The Panto is the perfect way to ring in the 2026 Christmas season.

Panto tickets always go fast, so get yours the moment they’re released.

Show Details

• Venue: Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, Wan Chai
• Dates: 27 November to 6 December 2026
• Performance times:
  • Fri 27 Nov: 7:30pm
  • Sat 28 Nov: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
  • Sun 29 Nov: 11:00am & 3:30pm
  • Thu 3 Dec: 7:30pm
  • Fri 4 Dec: 7:30pm
  • Sat 5 Dec: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
  • Sun 6 Dec: 11:00am & 3:30pm
• Tickets: HK$325-450
• Running time: approx. 120 minutes, and a 15 min intermission

When is Pinocchio The Panto in Hong Kong in 2026?

Hong Kong Players present Pinocchio: The Panto from Friday 27 November to Sunday 6 December 2026 at Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre in Wan Chai. Shows include evening performances at 7:30pm and matinees at 11am, 2:30pm or 3:30pm. The show runs about 120 minutes plus a 15-minute intermission. Full dates are on the Little Steps panto page.

Is the Hong Kong Players panto suitable for young kids?

Yes. British-style panto is made for families, with shout-backs, songs, slapstick and a dame, based on a story most kids already know. Recent shows have been billed from about age 3. Toddlers may get restless during a two-hour show, so a weekend matinee is usually easier than a late evening.

How much are tickets and where can I book them?

Tickets are on sale now, priced HK$325–450. Seats go fast for this Christmas tradition, so book soon rather than waiting for December walk-ups. Grab yours via the Hong Kong Players page.

Where is the panto performed and how do I get there?

It is at Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, 2 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. Take the MTR to Wan Chai station and allow time for a nearby meal so you are not rushing little ones after the curtain.

What makes this different from a big touring musical?

It is community theatre by Hong Kong residents, not a touring West End cast. The company has staged Christmas pantos almost every year since 1889. Expect local jokes, audience participation and a festive school-holiday tradition. Pair it with other December ideas such as Santa’s Secret Kingdom.