Aliens Love Panta Claus

Imagine a world where, on Christmas Eve, Santa’s sleigh suddenly loses its sparkle and can no longer take to the skies. Who on Earth — or beyond it — can possibly swoop in to save the day? Enter the Aliens… bursting with curiosity, colour, and a mission that’s out of this world.

“Aliens Love Panta Claus,” based on the much-loved book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort, is an absolute delight from start to finish. If the success of a children’s show is measured by the thunder of stomping feet, the flurry of waving hands, or the gleeful chorus of little voices shouting “PANTS!” at the stage, then this production is a runaway festive hit.

Photography. Jonathan Pryke.

Simon Kenney’s set is a charming nod to the book’s whimsical illustrations — simple, colourful, and wonderfully versatile. With seamless transitions from a magical forest to Santa’s workshop and finally to a cosy child’s bedroom, the world of the show feels instantly inviting. As children step into the auditorium, gentle, twinkling music by Jude Taylor helps young audiences settle into the festive atmosphere. The space buzzes with excited chatter from the school groups in attendance, and it’s clear that director Julia Thomas places children at the very heart of her creative choices. The production offers a brilliant introduction to theatre: moments of movement, call-and-response, and playful participation arrive exactly when little ones begin to get wriggly, keeping them joyfully engaged throughout.

A particularly inspired touch is having the characters venture into the audience before the show officially begins. This simple gesture builds an instant connection, easing nerves for children who may be new to theatre and transforming the room into a shared adventure.

All four actors shine in energetic, good-humoured performances, clearly committed to sparking smiles and laughter. As they leap and dance across the stage, firing off silly jokes and, of course, saying “pants” more times than anyone thought possible, their enthusiasm never falters. Benedict Hastings, as Lumi Snowmansen, frames the tale as he whisks the audience back in time to reveal how a group of aliens save Christmas — though how they do it is a surprise best discovered in the theatre. Joshua Coley and Mia Shelbourne, as the delightfully named duo “Elf” and “Safety,” add an extra layer of mischievous fun, delivering jokes and playful moments that land just as well with the grown-ups as with the children. A standout scene comes courtesy of Callum Concepcion as DJ Rudy, who reimagines Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer as the star of a full-blown festive rave. With fluorescent, swirling lights and joyful onstage mayhem, the number sends smiles rippling across the audience — adults included.

The puppetry throughout the show is simple yet wonderfully effective, with the alien characters proving to be a real crowd-pleaser. Bursting with bright colours and full of personality, Deborah Mingham’s designs leap to life in the hands of the talented cast, adding an extra sprinkle of magic to an already enchanting production.

The production is packed with catchy tunes that keep the energy high. While none of the songs are true sing-along numbers — which might be a missed opportunity to draw children even further into the fun — the lyrics are printed in the excellent programme. And speaking of the programme, it deserves its own round of applause: filled with creative activities and festive puzzles, it keeps young theatre-goers happily occupied before the show and will no doubt continue entertaining them long after they’ve left the auditorium.

My favourite musical number is the ridiculously joyful “Pants Party” — it is impossible not to grin along. Every song and every dance brims with silliness and sparkle. Is it too silly? Absolutely not. The children adore every second, and really, you don’t come to a show about underpants, knickers, and bloomers without expecting the silliest of silliness to take centre stage. The production embraces that spirit wholeheartedly — and the young audience couldn’t be happier.

Threaded through all the fun, however, is a gentle moral message for young audiences — one that teachers and parents will no doubt be glad to reinforce. Christmas, the show reminds us, is about giving rather than taking. As the characters encourage us to “give, give, give at Christmas [to] make the Christmas magic come alive,” the production adds a heartfelt note to all its festive silliness.

What more can I say, other than that the children absolutely loved this production — and in a show made for them, that’s what matters most. The cast and creative team infuse every moment with festive cheer, and it’s clear that future performances will sparkle just as brightly.

So, if there’s a child in your life who would relish the chance to shout “PANTS!” at full volume, dance along to a riotous “Pants Party,” and watch Rudolph, a band of aliens, Santa Claus, and a pair of cheeky elves throw the ultimate Christmas celebration, then head to Curve Theatre before Sunday 4 January. Catch the aliens before they blast back into space — and take their pants with them!