ENTERTAINER Owen Money returns to Blackwood 'Stute with a vengeance this Christmas, with an all-singing and dancing version of Babes in The Wood.

A cross between the tales of Robin Hood and Hansel and Gretel, the storyline by Alan Wightman is fast-paced - and the small but talented cast and youngsters from the New Cottage Dance School ensure there is never a dull moment in this fun-filled panto.

It is a fraught day in the forest as the panto baddie -- the wicked Sheriff of Nottingham - tries to kidnap the babes and end their lives so he can have their inheritance. But Robin Hood is too quick-witted for him and saves the day while also finding plenty of time to woo the lovely Maid Marion.

Money is definitely on form as the nice but dim Benny Flick with a never ending stream of wisecracks that leaves everyone laughing continuously with Sule Rimi as his sidekick Frankie - and they encourage lots of audience participation and bring some of the children up on stage for a dance too.

Sammi Broad is suitably swashbuckling as Robin Hood, who is, frankly, a bit of a show off - and the songs with her and Maid Marion are one of the highlights of this panto.

Tammi Bois is also very funny as the forest fairy, who is also secretly in love with Robin Hood.

The children are well-rehearsed in their roles as the panto babes, while Dick Bradnum is an absolute star as panto dame Nurse Nora Knickerbocker.

The whole thing is a riot of colour and fun - and if you haven't got tickets already, the show is on at the 'Stute at various times and dates until December 30.