IDLE and Thackley Theatre Group is heading for the mystical streets of Peking for its 29th annual pantomime.

Street rat Aladdin, played by dance tutor Emma Burton, frees a genie from a lamp and finds he is granted three wishes. However, he soon finds that evil in the form of Abanazar, played by Robert Cochrane, and his sidekick Shufa have other plans for the lamp, and also for Princess Camilla (Sammy Graveson).

The panto is written by drama tutor David Ayres, who is also turning his talents to the stage, playing the Genie with all the razor-sharp comedy improv of the late Robin Williams in the Disney animated classic.

The fast paced show still has all the traditional elements of panto, including well-known pantomime dame Liam Hunter who will once again be slipping on his heels as Widow Twankey.

Following on from last year’s Idle and Thackley panto, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Aladdin features supporting roles from Alyson Boote, Sara Temple and Ben Whitney from the adult group of the society along with the talented Itkids cast.

"If you’re looking for all the magic of Disney’s Aladdin then this is the panto to see, with clever use of scenery and a few magic tricks," says a group spokesman. "Prepare to be amazed by the Cave of Wonders and wowed by the flying carpet scene where Aladdin and Princess Camilla give a rendition of the classic A Whole New World."

* Aladdin runs at Idle and Thackley Little Theatre, Malt Shovel Yard, Westfield Lane, Idle from December 1-3 and December 7-10.

For tickets call (01274) 411080 or 07950 578920 or visit ticketsource.