It has become evident over the years that pantos don't come much better than those from the pen of Christopher Lillicrap.

The trademark of his success is a first-rate script which sparkles with new jokes, has a smattering of local references and a dash of well-loved, traditional routines.

Lillicrap and producer David Smith (who have been the Connaught's panto creators for some years) also teach their cheerful, multi-talented cast to respect the genre. Consequently, they manage to look as if there is nowhere else in the world they would rather be than on stage in Worthing.

This year's offering has all the hallmarks audiences have become accustomed to - a story well told and well performed, no weak links, no celebrities proving they can't act and slick choreography (which was upgraded this year to include backflips).

The show is completely stolen by Giles Watling as Dame Dotty.

His innuendos are particularly saucy and his costumes merit a show on their own. Simple Simon (David Dobson) is also great value, attracting the right blend of affection and ridicule.

Act one is a little bit too long for very young audience members and minds began to wander.

Act two is much snappier, with the silliness turned up a notch, as well as the audience participation, although the "oh no he isn'ts" and "he's behind yous" are kept to a minimum.

The show benefits from the live orchestra's sound effects and, thankfully, the corporate message is not all-consuming, with only three references to the supermarket sponsor.

Showing until January 8, call 01903 206206.