IT’S that time of year again – oh yes it is! – and panto aficionadoes are spoilt for choice.

Taking the plunge, Witley Pantomime Company’s 61st production is a fresh twist on Disney’s The Little Mermaid – while just a magic carpet ride away in Old Peking, Haslemere Thespians’ celebrate their 81st season with a rip-roaring version of Aladdin.

Audiences at Haslemere Hall from Friday, January 12 until Saturday, January 20, are invited to enjoy a “story of adventure and love, where our hero and his wicked Uncle Abanazar battle in pursuit of a lamp of extraordinary powers”.

A submarine spectacle is assured at Witley’s Chichester Hall from Wednesday, January 24, until Saturday, January 27, with a trap door entrance for Ariel The Mermaid to add extra sparkle to her transformation scene and the return of Dale Barrell as panto dame – as Crabs the Singing Crustacean.

To book tickets for Aladdin go to: www. haslemerehall.co.uk or call (01428) 642161.

To book tickets for The Little Mermaid go to: www.witleypanto.co.uk or call 07583 048084.