A full-throttle celebration of song, dance and slapstick comedy

A TRIP to the Grand Theatre at this time of year is somewhat of an institution in Swansea, and yet it has been years since I last saw a panto in this beautiful old theatre.

- Sion Morgan

Joe Pasquale (centre) drives the show as Aladdin's hapless brother Frankie Makey

The truth is I'd forgotten just how big, bold and immersive these productions are, and while I was excited to see the faces of our eight-year-old girl and five-year-old son, it turns out that mum and dad's belly laughs put the kids to shame.

This year's production is Aladdin - the traditional story of a street urchin's journey to find a magic lamp and to win the heart of Princess Jasmine, despite the efforts of his evil nemesis Sven Gali.

It is a romp through the streets of "Swanseabar", a full-throttled colourful and calamitous celebration of song, dance, flamboyant dresses and slapstick comedy.