Brighton: Allison Ferns in Cinderella pantomime this year

They said Cinderella be the "biggest and most spectacular" pantomime they have done to date, despite it being at the smaller venue of Brighton's Hilton Metropole hotel.

The cast includes BBC Radio Sussex's Allison Ferns and drag queen Miss Jason.

Cinderella kicks off on December 20 and runs until the 30th, marking a return to its roots following a stint at the Brighton Centre.

The cast on the staircase at the Hilton (Image: Graham Franks)

Executive producer at E3 Production David Hill said: "We are thrilled to have been invited back to the Hilton where we started our Brighton family panto back in 2017.

"Our loyal audience can expect jaw-dropping stage sets, dazzling costumes and some very clever special effects.

"Cinderella is the most magical story of them all and the perfect Christmas show for the entire family."

Ellie at the launch event (Image: Graham Franks)

Cinderella is played by Ellie Earl while Allison Ferns takes the role of Baroness Hardup.

David said: "I am proud that we have put together such a stellar cast. Miss Jason really is the best drag queen in the land and Allison Ferns is now a regular on both BBC radio and TV.

"We have theatre and West End performers who will be just as brilliant."

There will be morning, afternoon and evening shows with tickets starting from £10.

Allison in her costume (Image: Graham Franks)

Allison said: "I’m really excited to be appearing in what has to be my favourite pantomime of all time, Cinderella.

"I can’t wait to work alongside such a talented cast and crew and best of all, as the Wicked Stepmother, I get to play a baddie for the first time.

"I’m perfecting my evil laugh as we speak."

Ellie said: "I am super excited to be playing Cinderella this year. I love a panto and getting to do it in my home town is the cherry on the cake."