The Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre is thrilled to welcome back one of South Wales’ most cherished performers, Richard Elis, for this year’s pantomime, Rapunzel, running 27 November 2025 to 4 January 2026.
Now celebrating his 14th pantomime at The Riverfront, Richard has become a true cornerstone of The Riverfront's festive tradition. With his signature humour, warmth, and deep connection to audiences, he brings the spirit of panto year after year.
“I’m really happy to be back at The Riverfront again - the theatre and staff are like family,” says Richard. “Add that to the amazing Newport audiences and I am guaranteed to have a great Panto season here, as always.
The absolute cherry on the Panto iced cake this year is getting to mess around with… oh sorry, work really hard to create clear characters with Gareth Tempest again!”
This year’s pantomime, Rapunzel, tells the enchanting tale of a princess locked in a tower, a daring escape, and a magical quest deep in the Welsh forest. For Richard, he’s preparing to add ‘Hair Climbing’ to his CV – if Rapunzel lets him!
“Rapunzel just so happens to be one of my daughters’ all-time favourite stories, so I’m sure they’ll be thrilled with this production. Christmas and panto are a huge part of our lives as a family, and it’s a joy to be part of something so special once again.”
For Richard, pantomime is more than a tradition: “Panto is such an important part of the theatre world. It introduces so many people, especially children, to live performance, and it’s one of the few times audiences feel totally free to laugh, shout, and join in. It’s storytelling at its most alive.”
Jamie Anderson, Creative Development Manager at The Riverfront Theatre shared, “Richard Elis is a pillar of The Riverfront pantomime – his presence elevates the show year after year, and we are fortunate to have him back with us for our 20th pantomime season. I’m not sure if putting Richard & Gareth back together on stage is a good idea, but it’s certainly a really fun one.”
Don’t miss the chance to see Richard Elis light up the stage in what promises to be a spectacular, laugh-out-loud, heartwarming production of Rapunzel. With unforgettable
performances, dazzling sets, and plenty of festive fun, The Riverfront’s pantomime continues to be a must-see tradition in Newport’s Christmas calendar.
The Riverfront’s 2025/2026 pantomime is one not to be missed. Book your tickets today: newportlive.co.uk/rapunzel
