THE cast of a family pantomime are promising a “genie-us” performance of a specially written version of Aladdin.

Dryburn Theatrical Workshop are putting on the production in Chester-le-Street later this month.

The new production of Aladdin, written specially for the group by Gateshead born actor and writer Tom Whalley, will see an evil Egyptian magician Abanazar try and become master of the universe by finding an enchanted oil lamp, hidden away in a lost cave, which can only be accessed by the “chosen one”.

Lee Passmoor, chairman of Dryburn Theatrical Workshop, which has been putting on shows in County Durham for more than 40 years, said: “We’re delighted this hilarious new version of the classic pantomime ‘Aladdin’ has been specially written for Dryburn Theatrical Workshop by Gateshead born actor and writer, Tom Whalley.

“From Egypt to China, ‘Aladdin’ is a magical carpet ride of adventure, music and fun for all ages.”

The show will run from Wednesday, January 15 to Sunday, January 19 at the Park View Theatre in Chester-le-Street.

The shows on Thursday and Friday start at 7.15pm, while on the Saturday there will be 2.30pm matinee, as well as 6.30pm evening show.

There will also be a matinee on Sunday, January 19 at 2.30pm and the performance on the Wednesday of the week will be “relaxed”, aimed at those who might find the full performance stressful. It starts at 7.15pm.

Tickets are £9 for all on the Thursday, and £10 for adults and £9 for children and concessions Friday to Sunday, with reductions on block bookings available.

Tickets can be booked on 0191-388-3362 or at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/dryburntheatricalworkshop.