Lydiard Park and the historic Lydiard House were transformed into a fairytale scene this week as the Wyvern Theatre welcomed the enchanting cast of its 2025 Christmas pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, for an official photocall.
Set against the backdrop of vibrant autumn colours and the elegant beauty of one of Swindon’s most loved landmarks, the Sleeping Beauty cast gathered to celebrate the show’s upcoming run with a magical morning that captured the spirit of pantomime.
This year’s production stars Jenny Ryan — best known as The Vixen from ITV’s The Chase — as the wicked fairy Carabosse, alongside Swindon panto legend David Ashley, TikTok and musical theatre star Abbie Budden, comedian Thom Tuck, and award-nominated actor Ben Goffe, who returns by popular demand.
The cast enjoyed exploring the park’s stunning grounds and the historic Lydiard House, soaking up more than 500 years of local history while bringing a touch of pantomime magic to the scene. Families and dog walkers passing by were delighted by the colourful costumes, laughter, and festive atmosphere as the team posed for photos among the autumn leaves.
Sleeping Beauty promises to be a spectacular, laugh-out-loud show packed with everything audiences love about a traditional pantomime — side-splitting comedy, dazzling costumes, toe-tapping music, and plenty of audience participation.
When the wicked fairy Carabosse’s evil curse causes Princess Beauty to prick her finger on a spinning wheel and fall into an enchanted sleep, will anyone be able to break the spell before it’s too late?
Produced by Imagine Theatre, Sleeping Beauty will run at the Wyvern Theatre from Saturday 6 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026.
️ Tickets are available now at trafalgartickets.com or via swindontheatres.co.uk.
