IT is the dream machine set to generate an electric atmosphere in one of the South's biggest pantomime shows.

Leading electric car model Kia Soul EV will cruise into Southampton's Mayflower Theatre this winter during the star-studded production of Aladdin.

It will be the first time in the world that a Kia electric car will appear in a pantomime.

The environmentally friendly electric-blue car will take centre stage when it makes its theatre debut during a scene with comedian and national treasure Joe Pasquale leading the cast in the role of Wishee Washee.

Now it is revealed that the four-wheeled appearance is courtesy of of south coast based dealers Hendy Group who are have been announced as the show's sponsor.

Joe, who is well-known for being one of Britain's top-selling live comedians, is no stranger to pantomime and has also starred in several major theatre productions including The Producers and Spamalot in the West End and on tour.

He is being backed by Duncan James from boy band Blue who plays the title role of Aladdin.

The singer-songwriter, and television presenter has previously appeared in the West End in Chicago and Legally Blonde.

The infamous Widow Twankey, will be played by the legendary Ceri Dupree.

Aladdin will also feature an amazing 3D genie, granting our hero’s wishes and making dreams come true with the action onstage extended towards the audience with a stunning 3D sequence through Old Peking and a very magical carpet ride.

Hendy Group new car sales and marketing director Mark Busby said: "We are thrilled to be sponsoring such a terrific show, which is generally acknowledged as one of the best pantomimes in the country. It’s the perfect stage to showcase Kia’s exciting electric car to a new family audience. Everyone’s really excited at the prospect of working on a range of initiatives with Mayflower Theatre, which has a great reputation for outstanding work.”

Theatre chief executive Michael Ockwell is delighted at the deal and said: "This is a really innovative partnership and demonstrates what can be done to ensure our associates get an excellent return for their investment while at the same time helping us bring a new dimension to the production.”

The show is produced by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s biggest pantomime producer, the company behind last year’s record-breaking production of Cinderella starring Brian Conley and Gok Wan.

Aladdin runs from December 12 to January 3 and tickets are available by visiting the theatre Box Office or contacting 02380 711811 or visiting mayflower.org.uk.