As Christmas nears the curtain will shortly come up on the panto season - oh yes it is!

Mistletoe and kisses are just some of the many treats in store for the audiences of Dick Whittington and His Cat, at The Theatre, Chipping Norton next Friday.

Jim McManus, who plays Sarah the Cook, promises there will be loads of sweets, loads of laughs and loads of fun because that is what panto is all about.

Jim McManus as Sarah the Cook

Dick Whittington and His Cat has been written by one of Chippy's favourite panto writers, Jeff Clarke, and will be directed by the popular song and dance man, Johnny Worthy, who has appeared in numerous West End musicals.

Seats for this traditional family panto, which continues until Saturday, January 13, are already selling fast.

Early booking on 01608 642350 is essential if you want to join in the fun.

There will also be some exotic heat to warm the chilliest of evenings.

The Oxfordshire Touring Theatre Company will be performing Tales of Arabian Nights in village halls around the county. Designer Sophia Lovell Smith has created some luxurious sets with silk and satin and the play will be brought to life with original music, song and dance.

Music has been commissioned from Jon Nicholls who created the accompaniment to last year's production The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

The company will be opening at Great Milton Village Hall, on Friday, November 17 and Filkins Village Hall on Saturday November 18 before heading off on 33 dates around the county and later on a countrywide tour until February 9. All venues have their own ticket prices.