Aladdin polishes his lamp

Aladdin is one of the best-loved pantomimes of them all. The story of the poor boy-turned-thief, his evil uncle and their adventures with the magical lamp, was first told in The Arabian Nights, nearly 500 years ago.

This production is directed by Chris Harris who also stars in the show as Dame Widow Twankey.

Chris Harris said: "I feel a close connection with the Theatre Royal Bath - this is a glorious city with a very special feel about it, particularly at Christmas time -I am also able to drive to work and more importantly get to sleep in my own bed, near Bristol..

"It is no surprise that the tradition of panto in Bath goes back a long way:records show Joey Grimaldi played here in Victorian timesand more recently the greatFrank Maddox provided Christmas fayre for the Bath populacemany ayear."

He remembered: "My first show here was in 1981 whenI performed my world- famous showKemp's Jig on the main stage - how I remember that experience.. "And as for pantomime, that all started in 1986 inDick Whittington with Eric Sykes, and the late Norman Vaughan - enormous fun.

"Then in 2000I had the good fortune of being asked to play Widow Twankey in Aladdin and I have been here ever since.. a wonderful privilege to be asked."

About the particular appeal of pantomime, Chris Harris said: "I think it is something to do with the fact that we live in times of much change and seeing a panto is somewhat reassuring.

"It isn't going to threaten you and is something the whole family can enjoy - it is predictable, with a strong story and you can have a good shout if you want to.

"It is a chance also to introduce children to the joy of theatre going."

Aladdin also stars Clive Mantle, formerly known as Dr Mike Barratt in 'Casualty' and 'Holby City' who plays the villain Abanazar.

Children's television's Chris Till makes his Theatre Royal Bath debut as Aladdin; and Jon Monie returns to play Wishee Washee.

The show runs until Sunday, January 20.