A wicked fairy is creating havoc at the Wyvern Theatre where families are enjoying a fairytale pantomime with a feast of traditional ingredients.Within seconds of the opening of Sleeping Beauty, Carabosse, played by television soap star Lorraine Chase, is casting an evil spell over the audience. Ms Chase (right) makes her role look easy but then she has spent much time carrying out many dirty deeds as Stephanie Stokes in Emmerdale.

Sleeping Beauty is produced by Daryl Black who has created some record-breaking pantomimes at the Wyvern in recent years. Undoubtedly, this is the best offering of the decade.

All the principals and ensemble can take credit for their contribution to the show, which is packed with comedy capers, stunning sets and costumes, well-choregraphed dance routines and some welcome surprises like enchanting snow.

The dashing Prince Harry is played by Edd Post who appeared in the UK Tour of West Side Story. Ceri-Lyn Cissone, who was part of the Rocky Horror European Tour, is Sleeping Beauty and Jon Trenchard, who has been in pantomime at the Oxford Playhouse, is the comical Muddles. Alan McMahon makes a perfect Nanny Fanny, the pantomime dame, and Michael Cantwell plays the king. Particularly appealing is Melanie Masson as the kind Fairy Fortune.

Incidentally, the bad girl does turn out good. Carbosse even admits that her favourite place is Swindon. Funny that – I thought it was Luton Airport. But then those television commercials are unbelievable — unlike this memorable version of Sleeping Beauty!

The pantomime continues until January 10. Tickets can be booked by calling the box office on 01793 524481, or visit the website: www. wyverntheatre.org.uk