THE festive magic gets under way in Southampton tonight as previews open for the South Coast's biggest family pantomime.

Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood, entertainers The Chuckle Brothers and Britain's Got Talent finalists Flawless are set to star in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Mayflower Theatre.

Youngsters from The Lindsey Read School of Dance will also appear in the fairest pantomime of them all!

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be spectacularly brought to life with comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fab-u-lous costumes and stunning scenery.

Throw in a magical mirror, seven friendly dwarfs, a beautiful princess, a handsome prince and plenty of audience participation as we outwit the Wicked Queen and let love prevail in this glittering festive treat for all ages.

Craig Revel Horwood, famed for being the Strictly judge the audience love to hate, can't wait to take to the stage as The Wicked Queen.

Taking a break from rehearsals this week, he told the Daily Echo: ""The company are fantastic, really really talented. This is definitely the biggest panto I've done and it's my ninth and we're really looking forward to playing to such a big packed theatre.

"It's always fun to play the baddie and we've added in lots of Strictly puns as well. It's a really great part and I'm really looking forward to it.

"It's a joy introducing children to live theatre, that has been my life really ever since I was a teenager. We cannot lose theatre to Play Station 4! It's great to get kids interacting, plus there's always a moral to the story and it's a day out for the whole family. That's why I love doing panto and it's not Christmas without it.

There are no shows tomorrow to allow Craig Revel Horwood to appear in the live Strictly Come Dancing final but Snow White returns to the stage on Sunday with opening night official on Monday.

The panto runs until January 7.

Tickets: 023 8071 1811 or mayflower.org.uk