SUCH is the popularity of the Thame Players pantomime that as soon as the tickets go on sale they are immediately snapped up and it is easy to see why.

Superb effects and lighting set the scene and with the appearance of Erroll Bateman as the evil Abanazer and his counterpart June Garland as Tiger Lily, accompanied by four delightful sprites the show opened with a bang.

Well directed and cleverly written by Tim Shepherd there were lively chorus numbers and well chosen songs to accompany them. Constance Beaugeard and Katie Ell as Aladdin and the Princess respectively gave fine performances. Stalwart member Tony Long was a very credible dame unlike so many overplayed dames in panto.

The comedy was provided by Darren Topping as Sergeant Ping and Juliet Kendall as Constable Pong with Rob Wratten as an excellent Wishy Washy. Anne Lancaster offered an impressive performance as the Empress with Andew Clamp as the Emperor.

Thame Players' sets are always super and this was no exception. Under the guidance of Susannah Fellows, herself a West End actress, the musical numbers were entertaining. The audience joined in with gusto both in the singing and hissing and booing which accompanies any good panto.

If you missed this you missed a treat.

Until December 16.

Rita Carpenter