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The Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond has launched its much-loved annual pantomime knitting campaign – and this year’s theme is out of this world!

As part of the 2025 production of Cinderella, the Theatre is asking knitters and crocheters to create stars, which will be thrown onto the stage during performances running from 2 December 2025 to 10 January 2026.

Now a firm festive tradition, the knitted items have become a highlight of the panto season at the historic Theatre. They make their appearance at a key moment in the show – tossed by the audience in a burst of colour and fun, echoing the rowdy audience participation of Georgian times.

Since the knitting campaign began in 2011, the Theatre has received tens of thousands of handmade items inspired by each year’s panto – from bananas and snowballs to ice creams and fish. Last year, the campaign even featured on BBC’s The One Show, shining a national spotlight on this joyful Richmond tradition.

The Theatre’s Manager and Cinderella director, Jo Mawhinney, said: “Each star will represent the care and creativity of our incredible knitting community, who help make the Theatre feel so special every Christmas.”

People across the UK – and even as far away as Australia and New Zealand – regularly join in. But the Theatre is especially proud of the strong local support from Richmond and surrounding areas, where the campaign began.

Long-time panto knitter Jen Capewell (pictured) said: “It’s a real joy to be involved. Knitting stars for Cinderella will be especially lovely – and knowing they’ll be part of the show, cheered and thrown by the audience, makes it even more special.”

Knitted or crocheted stars in any shape, size or colour are welcome. Patterns are available from the Box Office or can be downloaded from the pantomime page at:

www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk/whats-on/pantomime

Completed stars should be dropped off at the Box Office or posted to:
The Georgian Theatre Royal, Victoria Road, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 4DW
to arrive by Saturday 29 November.

Cinderella promises a sparkling season of festive fun, with over 60 performances throughout December and January. Tickets (£18–£26) are available from the Box Office on 01748 825252 or online at www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk