The inimitable Ray Spencer is donning the frilly bloomers once again as the biggest “little” panto in the region returns. Brace yourself for ‘Aladdin’ at The Customs House.

To say that people look forward to The Customs House panto each year is to do it a disservice. People absolutely adore their festive offering and the clamour for tickets in 2023 is as fevered as ever. Penned by the aforementioned Ray Spencer (along with Graeme Thompson), the pair never fail to offer up a veritable laugh-filled show that is dusted with magic. This year Dame Bella, her son Aladdin, and her hapless nephew Dennis must work hard to make a living at the Cooksonville Laundry. But when Aladdin gets tricked by his wicked uncle Abaanzar, they all must venture into the magical Cave of Wonders. The journey causes chaos and mayhem for the little family who quickly find themselves in a world of magic carpets (with a spell-binding Genie of the Lamp in tow). But can they stop Abanazar getting his hands on the magic lamp? (Spoilers: probably.) Festive treats really don’t get any better than this. GM

Aladdin, 23 November-6 January, The Customs House, South Shields, times vary, from £12, customshouse.co.uk