A PANTO by a Romsey amateur dramatics group has begun its three-week run at a town centre theatre.

Romsey Amateur Operatic and Dramatics Society (RAODS) held its opening night of Camelot the Panto at the Romsey Plaza Theatre last night.

The 37 strong cast, half of which are under 16, will perform the panto four times each weekend for the next three weeks.

On Sunday, January 19, at 11am, will be a “relaxed performance” – specially aimed at those with autism or learning conditions.

The show is written by Ben Crocker and is being co-directed by Caroline Egg and David Putley.

Caroline, who directed the group’s 2017 panto, Beauty and the Beast, said: “It has been four months of sheer hard work, rehearsing two times a week.

“It’s a big cast and I’m so proud of everyone one of them. They deserve a really big audience.

“It’s a really good show and the stage craft and their stage presence is brilliant.”

The show centres around Prince Arthur and his quest to save the beautiful Guinevere from the wicked Morgan le Fay.

Meanwhile, Merlin attempts to discover the secret of eternal youth, while the audience attempt to work out why a Teddy Bear is in love with King Uther.

The first performance took place last night at 7.30pm.

There will then be two performances today, one at 2pm and one at 6pm, followed by a 2.30pm performance on Sunday.

This will be followed by four performances across the following weekend and four performances the weekend.

The 11am performance on Sunday, January 19, will be a relaxed performance, which is also suitable for those with hearing conditions, with all but two of the songs set to be Makaton signed.

Full priced tickets cost £14 per person, with a four person family ticket, of at least one adult and two children, available for £49.

For full listing times and details contact the Plaza Theatre or visit the website.