Peter Pan
Gavin Mitchell – recently part of the cast for the hugely successful Still Game revival at the SECC Hydro – has built a reputation in recent years as a pantomime villain. Taking up the role of Captain Hook, Mitchell will undoubtedly combine a cheeky wit with melodramatic wickedness, becoming the perfect foil for River City star Scott Fletcher's boy who won't grow up.

For many years, the King's has set the gold standard for Scottish panto, with a lavish set, a talented chorus of singers and dancers, and the familiar names of television – and radio – playing up their rapport with an enthusiastic audience. (GKV)

King's Theatre, Glasgow, Sat 6 Dec–Sun 11 Jan.

A Christmas Carol
Since taking on the role of artistic director at the Citizens Theatre in 2011, Dominic Hill's critically acclaimed, highly distinctive productions have gained a certain reputation with discerning theatre goers. Billed as 'a sort of pantomime', this production of Charles Dickens’ morality classic featuring Ebenezer Scrooge's three cautionary ghosts will boast his bold visuals and ambitious subtexts.
With Hill and adaptor Neil Bartlett at the helm, expect it to enchant and spook in equal measure. Recommended for a family audience seeking an edgier festive antidote to the usual treacle and tinsel fare – bring your favourite crusty old curmudgeon and watch their cynicism melt. (LI)

Citizens Theatre, Glasgow, Sat 29 Nov–Sat 3 Jan 2015.

Miracle on 34 Parnie Street
Both king and grand dame of panto, the inimitable Johnny McKnight returns for his festive Tron show after a successful year of charmingly teasing the sensibilities of Glasgow's theatre-going audiences. Hot on the heels of Wendy Hoose and News Just In, family favourite Miracle on 34th Street is subject to his spangly makeover with the action being dragged to the Merchant City. Providing the caustic one-liners as Kristine Cagney Kringle, McKnight's Santa is a lady (of sorts) whose job in a department store may soon be the stuff of Christmas past. The most wonderfully warped selection box you'll get this year, with no stuffing gag being left out. (LI)

Tron Theatre, Glasgow, Fri 28 Nov–Sun 4 Jan.