SHOPPERS are being treated to free pantomime performances as a respite from the festive clamour at Gateshead MetroCentre.
The indoor complex's own cuddly characters, the MetroGnomes, are starring in a specially-written version of the traditional children's favourite, Mother Goose.
Gnomes Herbert, Sherbet, Maggot and Rusty have played to huge audiences in the run-up to Christmas, and will continue to perform the show until January 6.
The show lasts about 30 minutes and features new songs, costumes and dance routines specially-produced for the production.
Choreographers and musicians have spent weeks working with the gnomes to make sure they are in tip-top condition for the panto season.
The free panto is part of the festive fare at the MetroCentre, which this year includes new Christmas decorations, including the centre's own Angels of the North and huge Santa figures placed round the malls.
There is also an animation show featuring a variety of cartoon characters in the centre's Town Square area.
The MetroCentre remains closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, but reopens on Thursday with the panto taking place in the Exhibition Square at 11.30am and about every two hours after that.
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