THERE’S a new idiot at Keighley Musical Theatre Company as James Windle takes on the traditional panto role of the gormless sidekick to the Dame.

He will perform as Wishee Washee opposite Dean Harness as Widow Twankey when Aladdin takes the stage at Victoria Hall this month.

KMTC spokesman David Brett said the pantomime would be a treat for the entire family.

He said: “It is one of the well-known and popular stories and we’re aiming to make ours better than Bradford’s – but we don’t of course have their budget! Good family entertainment is what we offer but also look out for the special effects.

“Best of all we once again have a magnificent line-up of amazing dancers and adorable kiddies and a great supporting cast too!

“Written by the kings of panto, Keith Marsden and Geoffrey Rundle, with little bits added by Mark Coulthard, we once again take you to the land of old Peking. Tickets are selling well this year the so people shouldn’t leave it to the last minute.”

As usual the directors are Peter Whitley and Judith Chapman come with Judith choreographing the cast of 50 and Geoff Garrett serving as musical director. The principal cast includes Fiona Spencer as Aladdin, Mark Hutchinson as the villainous Abanazer, Phoenix Hillier as the Slave Of The Ring, Jonny Tate as The Genie and Philip Smith as the Chief of Police.

David added: “We have the Emperor (Mark Brown) assisted by the Grand Vizier (Haydn Cavanagh) and the beautiful Princess So-Shi played by Stephanie Laycock. Love is in the air when Aladdin and Princess So-Shi meet but will Abanazar foil their plans?”

Local people are invited to take the magic carpet ride when Keighley Musical Theatre Company, formerly Keighley Amateurs, stages its pantomime fully entitled Aladdin And His Wonderful Lamp.

Aladdin will be at Victoria Hall, Keighley, on Saturdays January 26 and February 2 (1pm and 6pm), January 27 (2.15pm), and January 29 & 30 and February 1 (7.15pm).

Visit keighleymtc.com, call 03000 301303, or call at the Copy Shop, off High Street, Keighley, to book tickets.

All the photographs have been taken by David Brett.