Local MP Steve Brine joined the team putting on this year's pantomime at the Theatre Royal, as they held a press launch to mark the start of the Aladdin production.
They were also joined by local entertainer Neil Kelso, fresh from sell-out Edinburgh Fringe success earlier this summer. Neil will be playing live music into the panto this year.
Steve said: "I am especially pleased to be here today because the Theatre Royal is very kindly sponsoring my second Christmas Card competition, where the first prize winner will win a family ticket to see the show. Panto is a wonderful tradition, and I am sure that so many families will enjoy the 2012 production.
"We are very lucky to have a thriving theatre in Winchester, which hasn't always been the case and it doesn't necessarily follow it will always be here without support from residents and businesses across the city and wider area.
Rehearsals for Aladdin start in late November and opening night is on Wednesday 12th December – oh yes it is!
More information ...
Visit Theatre Royal Winchester and book tickets via www.theatre-royal-winchester.co.uk.
Find out more about Steve's second Christmas card competition here.