THERE is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than going along to a pantomime, and this year’s performance at the Billingham Forum is a real festive treat.

Jake Canuso, from TV’s Benidorm, plays a blinding Abanazer in the wonderful tale of Aladdin, leading a great cast intent on having fun with the audience.

Jake, who plays a lothario waiter in the hit TV series, was smooth and commanding from the moment the curtain went up. So convincing was he as the obligatory baddie, a couple of tiny tots started to cry moments after he first appeared. He certainly owned the stage.

However, Jake was not the only star in this great seasonal show by Duggie Chapman.

Natalie Pilkington showed off her stunning singing voice as the Princess, while comedian and actor Brennan Reece was a real natural walking the boards as Aladdin. He can sing too.

However, no panto is complete without a dame and Craig Ansell has returned to The Forum again this year to play a superb Widow Twankey. His costumes and one- liners had everyone smiling from start to finish – and he can walk in heels like nobody’s business.

And funnyman Barnaby was the children’s favourite as Aladdin’s brother Wishy Washy, with an energy and humour that had the audience eating out of his hand from start to finish.

With wonderful costumes, beautiful music and laughs aplenty, you would be mad to miss this year’s Christmas offering at The Forum.

Get tickets while you still can.

  •  Runs until January 4. Box office 01642-552663.

Karen Westcott