Southwick Players’ pantomime takes off right from the start, delivering an entertaining production throughout.

Ron Common’s assured direction is well paced and his hard working cast do not let him down.

Monday’s audience may have been small in numbers but they were humongous in vocal enthusiasm, participation and encouragement.

The familiar tale follows Whittington’s dream of finding his fortune in London and of defeating the dastardly King Rat.

His quest is aided by Fairy Tinkle – Louise Yeo departs from the usual vision in white, all sweetness and light. With multi-coloured hair and costume she is more a Punkish Puck and very comical.

There is more comedy with chief honours going to Ian Bishop’s Dame, a brilliant performance complete with some very slick adlibs and to H Reeves for his gormless humour and for the sight of his belly dancing.

Special mention must go to Georgia Harrison as Tommy, the cat – a charming creation providing the feline with character through skilful miming.

This production bucks the trend with its choice of songs. Instead of bland pop songs shoehorned in, the audience is treated to numbers that fit naturally into the show.

A team show that the Players can be proud of.