Swordplay and a Spotty Dinosaur: Jersey's Winter Pantomime

By Alyssa | WhatsOn local events writer Alyssa picks out timely events, local favourites and useful places to eat, stay and explore.

January in Jersey is shaking off its post-Christmas lull with the arrival of D'Artagnan and the Three Centeniers, a highly anticipated pantomime running from 7 to 18 January 2027 at the Jersey Arts Centre. Produced by the beloved Jersey Amateur Dramatic Club, this locally spun take on the classic Three Musketeers story provides the perfect, laughter-filled cure for the winter blues. Whether you are a visiting family looking for a lively evening out or a local needing a hearty dose of theatrical cheer, this production promises to be the undisputed highlight of the island’s early-year arts calendar.

Swashbuckling, Slapstick and a Spotty Dinosaur

This is the classic British panto experience but delivered with a distinct Jersey flair. Expect the dramatic clatter of stage swordplay, the riotous echoes of audience participation, and a flurry of colourful costumes sweeping across the Arts Centre stage. Families can look forward to rapid-fire local jokes, plenty of brilliant physical comedy, and the delightfully absurd appearance of a spotty dinosaur. For older theatre-goers and night owls catching the evening performances, the charm lies in the clever wit, the playful double entendres, and the sheer energy radiating from the cast. It is an unapologetically joyous spectacle that demands you throw your inhibitions aside and join in with the traditional cheers and boos.

A Local Cast with Incredible Heart

As a production by the Jersey Amateur Dramatic Club, the stage is brought to life by a dedicated crew of islanders who pour their evenings and weekends into rehearsals. The crowd reflects this warm, communal spirit; the auditorium hums with the chatter of friends, visiting families, and proud locals turning out to support the island's vibrant performing arts scene. You will feel a shared, infectious energy from the moment the curtain rises, making it impossible not to get swept up in the collective giggles and gasps of a packed house.

Know Before You Go

• Book ahead: January pantomimes are fiercely popular in Jersey. Secure your seats online well in advance, especially if you are aiming for the weekend matinees. Check availability and book via the official Jersey Arts Centre box office.
• Arrive early: The Arts Centre foyer gets wonderfully bustling before curtain up. Give yourself at least thirty minutes to grab a drink, find your seats, and soak up the pre-show excitement.
• Parking: The nearest public parking is at Minden Place, just a short walk away, but spaces fill up quickly on show nights, so allow extra time to find a spot.
• What to expect: Prepare for loud noises, bright flashing lights, and plenty of audience interaction—it is all part of the immersive fun!

Make a Weekend of It

Since you will be right in the heart of St Helier, it is incredibly easy to build a full winter weekend around the show. You do not even have to leave the building for a brilliant pre-show meal; just head to Cafejac, Jersey Arts Centre for fantastic coffee, thick avocado toast, or a quick, relaxed bite. It gets busy, which is always a good sign of local affection.

Before the evening performance, dive into the island's rich heritage at the Jersey Museum & Art Gallery down by the Weighbridge, where you can explore the beautifully restored gas-lit Victorian House. If you prefer to stay on the move, wrap up warm and join a guided walking tour with Stroll In Jersey to uncover the hidden histories of the island's urban and rural corners.

For a comfortable base within walking distance of the theatre, check into the Thalatta Guest House on Cleveland Road, known for its superb breakfasts and homely feel. Alternatively, the modern Pomme d’Or Hotel on Liberation Square offers lovely harbour views and an unbeatable central location. Finally, if you are wrapping up your weekend on a Sunday, catch a bus out to St Clement for a generous, warming carvery and a welcoming atmosphere at Le Hocq Inn.

I will see you in the stalls—get your vocal cords ready to cheer on the musketeers! Alyssa for WhatsOn.