The festive magic was well and truly alive at Norwich Theatre Royal as it had a record-breaking panto season.
The 2023/24 Christmas offering at the venue was Sleeping Beauty and it was written by Joe Tracini, who also starred as the Good Fairy.
He was joined by fellow Norwich panto regular Richard Gauntlett, West End stars Millie O'Connell and Karl Queensborough and Coronation Street's Beverley Callard.
More than 50,000 people saw the show, making it Norwich Theatre Royal's highest-grossing pantomime ever, and 17pc of that total visited the venue for the first time.
READ MORE: 5 hit West End plays heading to Norwich in 2024
There were audience members spanning 30 different countries, including Austria, South Africa, the USA and, of course, the UK.
The local links included a sumptuous set from Lowestoft-based Scenic Projects, magic creation from Sean Alexander and puppets from Matt Reeve.
Sleeping Beauty: The Fairy's Tale was the greenest panto to date, featuring biodegradable glitter, water-based smoke machines and recycled and upcycled costumes.
More than £16,000 was raised for Norwich Theatre's Christmas Appeal, with £13,000 of this through bucket donations at December shows in its venues - the Royal, Playhouse and Stage Two.
The money will help bring the joy of creativity to people who may face barriers to exploring it on their own.
READ MORE: Indian Street Food Carnival returning to Norwich this month
Stephen Crocker, Norwich Theatre's chief executive and creative director, said: "I am so proud that we brought a truly locally created pantomime to our stage and told stories that reflect the modern times we live in.
“Written by Joe Tracini and with a hugely talented cast, the show was full of heart and fun and it made the perfect festive treat!"
Meanwhile, the 2024/25 Theatre Royal pantomime has been announced as Aladdin, which will run from December 7 to January 5.
Book before January 31 and get a 20pc discount off all performances for tickets in Band A-C.
Book at norwichtheatre.org or call 01603 630000.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here