Steven Allen not only wrote the hilarious original script for this traditional pantomime but cast himself as the stooge in the audience as King Steve of Hythe.

Quite deservedly, as it turned out, for this had lots to commend it.

The colourful set was populated by a talented cast, with more than the usual number of performers worthy of mention.

First among these were Julie Watkinson as the animated Nanny Marbelle, Julia Allen (Fairy Duskheart) and Wayne Reddin (Fairy Emberspark).

Anthony Morrison and Mike Coultas stole the second act, as Edward and Prince Sebastian, where for once the Prince didn’t get the girl.

Hannah Worlock made an enchanting Princess, but along with Lucy Phillips (Queen), suffered from a lack of projection, hardly audible beyond the first few rows.

Mike Bailey’s delivery as the King was very assured and Dave Sutherland (Rubble) gave us plenty of laughs in director Becky Coultas’ entertaining show.

Alan Johns