WITH Christmas out of the way, there’s a collective pause for breath before New Year. But this quiet ‘twixtmas’ period is the perfect time for spending time with the family at a heartwarming festive show. Here are some of the best:

Dick Whittington at Oxford Playhouse – Expect a great cast, pirates, ships, King Rat the villain, sharks, fantastic musical singalongs and some epic costumes for Dame Sarah the Cook. Until January 6. oxfordplayhouse.com or 01865 305305.

Aladdin at The Theatre Chipping Norton – Be transported to 1930s Cairo with a few twists and turns along the way. With 18,000 people expected through the doors of the 200-seater theatre between now and January, the production is already quite an event. With audience participation, camels, mummies and flying carpets, expect the ride of a lifetime. Until January 13. chippingnorton theatre.co.uk

Alby the Penguin Saves Christmas at the BT Studio, Oxford – Aimed at 3-6 year-olds this show is full of music and puppetry. It features the special snow-white penguin Alby who, after being cast out of his group, finds himself wandering the South Pole all alone. Until January 5. 01865 305305. oxfordplayhouse.com

Peter Pan at The North Wall, Oxford – Tinkerbell is a man, Hook is a woman, and the theatre is transformed into a cabaret-style space. The cast of this raucous fun-packed show are joined by five young performers from Creation’s Drama Clubs. Until January 5. creationtheatre.co.uk

Jersey Boys at The New Theatre, Oxford – The West End and Broadway musical tells the story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons’ rise to fame. Jersey Boys first opened in London in 2008 and is the winner of 57 major awards and has been seen by 25 million people worldwide. It’s packed with great tunes which leave you singing. Until January 6. 0844 8713020 or atgtickets.com/oxford

Wish at Oxford Castle – is full of magic, music and song. This is the fifth year that the museum has produced a Christmas show for children and families, all featuring single performers.

Based on the traditional tale of the Pedlar of Swaffham and presented by the Story Museum, it sees a humble man who has a dream about seeking his fortune on London Bridge and sets out on a journey to make his dream come true. Until January 6. Tickets from storymuseum.org.uk.