STOURBRIDGE Pantomime Company have a history of staging top quality shows and this year's production of Aladdin is no exception.

From the first moments the audience is involved in a colourful and spectacular romp set in ancient China, telling the tale of Aladdin's love for a beautiful emperor's daughter.

Young and old gathered at Stourbridge Town Hall for the performance on Saturday January 19 to see a show which has something for everyone.

With the addition of new seating the venue itself provides first class facilities with a good view of the stage from all areas and a sound system which allows the audience to hear every word of dialogue and note of music.

One of the highlights of the show were the superb stage sets, including a working fountain, which changed frequently and included some well thought out special effects.

Clever stage sets contributed to perhaps the funniest sequence of the show in Widow Twankey's chinese laundry when her hapless son Wishy Washy is literally put through the wringer.

It is slapstick comedy genius which left all ages hooting with laughter.

Fred Shaw as panto dame Twankey is wonderfully over-the-top with costumes that would make Edna Everage proud while Wishy Washy, played by Steve Humpherson, is the perfect partner for the dame's hilarious humour.

Terry Gormley's portrayal of the emperor was another stand-out part of the show, he delivered the character in a Groucho Marx manner which fitted the bill completely.

As the show came to an end with a big song and dance version of the pop song Better The Devil You Know' everyone knew they had enjoyed a terrific evening of entertainment.

Aladdin runs at the Town Hall until Saturday January 26.