Twins described as Europe’s hottest illusionists – whose stunts include making a helicopter disappear in less than four seconds and flying a Dalek above an audience – have created the special effects in this year’s Alhambra panto.

The panto, Robin Hood, will feature the work of The Twins who are Gary and Paul Hardy-Brown.

They specialise in spectacular illusions which have included making elephants appear beneath a big top, making a luxury yacht disappear and turning a state-of-the art Robinson R22 helicopter into thin air on the Alhambra stage during last year’s panto, Jack and the Beanstalk.

They have also worked on the musical version of Jeff Wayne’s War of the Worlds and Dr Who Live.

In Robin Hood, The Twins’ special effects will include a smoke-breathing dragon with a wingspan of more than five metres which takes to the air and flies over the audience, and an on-stage waterfall in which words magically appear.

Their illusions have wowed Alhambra audiences in previous productions of Aladdin – when a magic carpet ride soared over the auditorium – and the David Essex musical, All the Fun of the Fair.

The Twins, who have worked on productions around the world, started working on their craft from the age of eight when their parents bought them a magic set.

“One day, when no-one was at home, we were rehearsing this complicated levitation and our mum came home unexpectedly from work,” said Gary.

“She walked into the kitchen and nearly collapsed in amazement as my brother floated in mid-air over the kitchen table!” added Paul.

  • Robin Hood – The Pantomime Adventure runs at the Alhambra from this Saturday until Sunday, February 5. Tickets are available at the box office on (01274) 432000.