Anyone in search of a family show this festive time need look no further than the Connaught.

Aladdin has all the elements of a traditional pantomime plus pop music and up to date references, including The Seagulls’ abysmal performance.

There is nothing abysmal about the production or the performances. The eye is dazzled by colourful costumes and the ear is subjected to jokes that are pure corn and puns truly groan-inducing.

S Club 7’s Jon Lee in the title role delights his young fans with his singing. Princess Jasmine, the object of his love, is sweetly played by Jade Chaston with a voice that enchants.

Local favourites Tom Evans and Jack Hayes give good value as comic policemen whilst Terry Gleed’s Wishee Washee is a bundle of energy who hardly stands still.

Kieran Sutcliffe and Sarah Jameson, semi-finalists from Britain’s Got Talent, raise the tone with a classy Nessun Dorma.

Every pantomime must have a good dame and Stephen Richards’ is first class – saucy innuendos but never offensive.

While we are given traditional fare such as a ghost scene and a superb cross-talking sketch there is sadly no song sheet for audience participation. But there is a flying carpet!