STEPHEN PULLINGER This panto is proof that you do not need a lavish budget or star-studded cast for a purr-fect family treat.

STEPHEN PULLINGER

This panto is proof that you do not need a lavish budget or star-studded cast for a purr-fect family treat.

The seasoned theatre craft of director/writer Jon Taylor and his team shines through in this colourful, fast-paced production.

The intimate atmosphere of St George's lends itself perfectly to the classic pantomime interplay – the roar “hiya kids, hiya Queenie” getting louder on each appearance by bustling dame Queen Daphne.

The only criticism offered by the three junior EDP critics I took along for Saturday's first night show is that over two hours is a little on the long side to sit still.

John Woods, who took over as theatre administrator last year, is clearly at ease playing the comic, outrageously costumed Queen Daphne, having played the dame 25 times in a career lasting 40 years.

The audience is quick to warm to his colourful OTT character, adults and children both responding to his invitations to shout out.

The other stars, in my mind, are “lazy brothers” Cedric and Cecil (Myk Moretta and Joshua Lacey) who bring instinctive comic timing to two bad boys turning good.

William B Richards gives a smooth comic performance as Count Cash, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, in what is, incredibly, his acting debut.

The quality singing is exemplified by principal boy Katie Frusher who gives a seasoned performance as Mark the miller's son.

Sheila Pascal, a veteran of more than 20 pantomimes, delights as the ingenious Puss, the kind of wealth-making cat anyone would like.

The show finishes on Saturday January 11. Call the box office on 01493 858387.