Not having a big star billing in a panto need not necessarily detract from the enjoyment and running of the show.

We were accompanied to this year’s Harrogate pantomime by 100 excited primary school pupils from Brackenfield School, and as usual, it did not disappoint. Jack and the Beanstalk is a bright and lively production, directed by Marcus Romer, that delivers exactly what everyone expects of panto: big laughs, catchy musical numbers and plenty of audience participation.

Bonkers and dazzlingly brilliant does not shine a light on describing the impact of Aladdin at Newcastle Theatre Royal. I can’t remember when I laughed so much for so long that my ribs ached. Turning convention on its head, there is just a cursory nod to the rags-to-riches traditional theme in this extravaganza brimming with creative, comedic genius.

Three West End actors have arrived at Pleasure Beach Resort’s theatre ahead of the launch of its Christmas pantomime, Cinderella. Ian Oswald, Chris O’Mara and James Colebrook arrived last week at the resort, and have already begun rehearsing with the rest of the cast and crew.