Craig Revel Horwood, Debbie McGee in Cinderella at Mayflower

Craig Revel Horwood, Debbie McGee and Richard Cadell all star in the festive production of Cinderella.

The performance was officially launched at the theatre today and the celebrities stopped by for a chat with the Echo.

Cinderella Panto at The Mayflower Theatre, staring Craig Revel Horwood, Debbie McGee, Richard Cadell and Sooty.

Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig will show his evil side as he takes on the role of The Wicked Stepmother.

He said: "I'm really looking forward to it because we've got the Palladium set, and the horses and the carriages that fly across the stage are absolutely stunning, so I can't wait for people to come and see it. And the theatre is back open, and, it's bigger than the Palladium, that's what I was amazed about.

"It's not only great for bringing the kids, but also for bringing your whole family, like your grandparents, your parents, the kids, their kids, all of that. It's always a show for adults as much"

Debbie McGee, best known as the assistant and widow of magician Paul Daniels, joins the cast as the Fairy Godmother.

"I am really looking forward to it because I know we're going to have so much fun, but also because we are here at this huge theatre, and the production is going to be amazing," she said.

"We can say that, it's from the Palladium, the set, so it's like a movie set. Don't miss it, because it is special."

TV sensation Sooty, who will play himself, will be joined by his trusted sidekick Richard Cadell, who will appear as Buttons.

The pair will bring big magic tricks including one with chainsaws flying around, and another with a motorcycle.

Richard said: "We're really, really pleased to be in Southampton because, it's just such a brilliant theatre."

Tickets for Cinderella, which runs December 10 to January 2, are on sale from Mayflower Theatre Box Office: 02380 711811 or mayflower.org.uk.

Michael Ockwell, Mayflower Theatre chief executive, said: “We want this Christmas to be an extra special one for all families this year.

"We have all been through a hard time and pantomime is part of the magic that lifts us up to enjoy with loved ones together."