DANCERS from the Zoe Taylor Dance Academy will be rubbing shoulders with the stars when they perform in this year's pantomime production at Thwaites Empire Theatre in Blackburn.

Aladdin, directed by respected Blackpool producer Duggie Chapman, will be the biggest ever staged at the Ewood theatre.

The star of the show, playing the role of Aladdin, will be 17-year-old actor Alex Sheldon currently playing Ed in TV's Grange Hill.

Michael Berry from Thwaites Empire, said: "We have quickly gained a reputation in Blackburn for presenting a traditional Christmas pantomime that not only offers some of the very best entertainment in the north west but also provides really great value for money, and an unbeatable combination everyone has been quick to appreciate."

The show will be action-packed from start to finish.

It will also feature new comedian and instrumentalist Andy Eastwood as Wishie Washie, Gordon Desmond as Widow Twanky, Pete Lindup as PC Ping, Tony Leyton as the Emperor of China, Scott Clark as the wicked Abanazer, Helen Barker as Princess Balroubadour and special guest international illusionist Van Buren as the Genie.

Aladdin opens on Tuesday, December 1, and runs until December 31. Advance bookings are being taken. Reserve your seat by calling the box office on 01254 680137.