THE Theatre Royal, Bath, has a far-reaching reputation for putting on one of the best pantomimes in the region and it certainly does not disappoint!

This year’s production is Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs; only the second time the show has been performed at the theatre in all its esteemed panto history.

Credit must be given to Chris Harris - the Grande Dame of West Country panto - who is directing the Bath show for the tenth consecutive year, as he gets the balance right once again. This is not an easy task with a show that has to appeal to such a wide audience, especially as the younger members are all expecting a re-run of the Disney ‘classic’, while accompanying grandparents appreciate the familiar joy of comedy songs, jokes and subtle innuendo.

Acclaimed actress Nichola MacAuliffe is the ‘Big Name’ this year and she pulls out every stop to bring her part as wicked Queen to life, and certainly offers an extra special depth to the usual panto ‘celebrity’. And the lovely Laura Clement plays the perfect foil to the Wicked Queen, as the sweet and innocent Snow White.

Jon Monie is superb, as ever, as Muddles and cannot put a foot wrong with the children, especially when part of a double act with Chris Harris, who effortlessly takes on his usual role of the Dame, this time Nurse Nelly, and all the fancy costumes this entails.

Special mention must be made of the young dancers, bringing the woodlands to life to Verdi’s traditional score, but more for the fantastic version of Psy’s Gangnam Style – or should that be Twerton style?

There is indeed something for everyone in this production, from the very, very young to the very, very old, and if you don’t like to take risks with your festive theatrical fare then this is certainly the show for you.

Snow White is guaranteed to warm the corners of your soul that other pantos cannot reach! At the Theatre Royal, Bath, until January 13.