A THEATRE is celebrating another year of pantomime success after the curtain went down on its annual Christmas performance.

Durham Gala Theatre’s slapstick production of the children’s classic Aladdin attracted thousands of spectators, with almost 28,000 tickets sold for a six-week run of 60 evening and matinee performances.

The show saw the return of Gala favourites Neil Armstrong as evil Abanazar and Paul Hartley as laundry boy Wishee Washy. It also marked the panto debut of local actor Chris Connel as the larger than life dame, Widow Twankey.

The Gala team is now making plans for next year’s panto Cinderella, with discounted tickets already going on sale.

Robin Byers, the theatre’s programming and operations manager, said: “Our panto is a festive favourite for thousands of families and we’re always pleased to welcome back regular visitors as well as new faces.

“This year has been a successful one thanks to our enthusiastic audiences and the help of our Gala team.

“We are now preparing for our Christmas 2015 production of Cinderella and have already taken over 1,000 bookings so would encourage people to start booking now.”

Cinderella will run from November 26 to January 3. Early bird bookers will be offered the chance to purchase top price tickets for only £10 – quote ‘pantoearlybird’ at the Gala Theatre box office, or by phone on 03000 266 600.