Everyone needs a good pantomime at Christmas. Oh no we don't. Oh yes you do.

Thank the heavens that in 2011 the marvellous James Weisz and his talented team resurrected the festive tradition of heckling a baddie with boos and hisses, whilst her pathetic but loveable sidekick gets our sympathy in a tale of love and good versus evil.

The Emporium's theatre room is transformed into the streets of the Arabian city of Agrabah from the second your ticket is checked.

Aladdin is a thoroughly enjoyable piece of theatre.

Thanks to the incredible artistic talent in Brighton and Hove the panto features incredible young dancers, acrobatics, professional vocals, a spot-on soundtrack, flawless production... The list goes on.

And the funny script and songs are all original creations - further heightening the appreciation for the performance.

The cast of 11 features six talented young dancers, the hilarious Mike Goodenough in incredible costumes as the Sultan and Genie, talented Fay Ellen Roberts as Jasmine, stunningly agile Tyler Kennington as Aladdin, Rory Maguire as loveable Rik, side kick to the evil Electra perfectly played by Pip Henderson.

There's even a spot of modern magic - the lamp is created by a 3D printer.

But don't panic - it's not all perfect. There are grown-inducing jokes aplenty.

Please buy your tickets and show your support for the Brighton pantomime.

Four stars