Come one, come all to the wackiest, most hilarious family-friendly show this holiday season! The East Van Panto is a holiday show that is not to be missed. Each year, the merry crew of talented creatives selects a new story to put a lively spin on. In its thirteenth year, Theatre Replacement’s East Van Panto presents West Van Story. 

If you’re not familiar with a panto, or pantomime, it is a show that typically happens around the holidays. It features music, comedy, a great deal of booing the bad guys and cheering the good guys, and plenty of unexpected role reversals and silly bits to turn a familiar story into a new and unique tale. Theatre Replacement’s East Van Panto: West Van Story begins what something Vancourites know all too well: rain! When a freak atmospheric tsunami hits, West Van influencer Holly and her curling crew The Hurry Hards, are stranded in East Van – the land of their sworn enemies! When Holly meets proud East Van resident Joes, who has an abundance of good looks and charm, she knows she’s in for a turbulent time. Forced to choose between two cities, two families, and romance, Holly must decide who she really is and what she wants.

This year, a new team of creators takes the helm. West Van Story is written by Marcus Youssef with Pedro Chamale, and directed by Chelsea Haberlin. Even with a new team (which happens every two years…), no Panto is complete without the talented Veda Hille. Back for her 13th year to create music, Hille’s musical stylings add an extraordinary layer to this already fun and exciting show.

Infused with comedic elements and Vancouver references that theatre-goers of all ages will appreciate, East Van Panto: West Van Story will leave audiences with sore cheeks from laughing and smiling throughout. With hilarious musical numbers, over-the-top tomfoolery, and brilliant sets and costumes to enhance the storyline, this is a holiday tradition that your family will be begging to return to year after year. Although recommended for ages 5+, every audience member will find something hilarious in this roaring show. Accessible performances are available on select nights.

Shows for the East Van Panto frequently sell out early, so buy your tickets now to ensure your spot.

Previous audiences rave about East Van Panto shows:

“It is a highlight of my every December.” — Marsha Lederman, The Globe and Mail
“Rowdy made-in-East-Van fun for the whole family.“—Stir
“It’s the most hilarious time of the year!” — Jay Minter, On the List
“A cherished, made-in-East-Van tradition”—Jo Ledingham, Theatre Critic
“East Van Panto has earned its place as one of the best-loved holiday traditions in Vancouver”—Colin Thomas, Theatre Critic
“A holiday tradition that joyously skewers convention.” —Georgia Straight

Theatre Replacement’s East Van Panto: West Van Story

Dates: November 19, 2025 – January 11, 2026 (NEW! More shows added)
Time: 2:00 PM (Matinees); 7:00 PM (Evening)
Venue: York Theatre
Address: 639 Commercial Dr., Vancouver
Phone: 604-251-1363
Website: thecultch.com