WITH summer drawing to a close, now is the time to make sure that the Christmas season will crackle with a host of treats and the annual pantomime is one highlight guaranteed to make you smile.

This year The Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham is promising one of the biggest and the best, with the crazy tale of a Gloucestershire lad going from zero to hero, Dick Whittington and his Cat.

Starring much-loved Tweedy the Clown, Molly McGuire as Dick Whittington and Ben Goffe as Tommy the Cat, Dick Whittington and his Cat will be packed with thrills, spills, laughs and songs for children and big kids alike.

Anything can happen when Dick takes on King Rat, but you can bet it’ll be a magical, fun-filled adventure.

Tweedy said: “I’m very excited to be returning to The Everyman for my sixth panto. Dick Whittington was my first panto there, so I look forward to doing it again with new sets, costumes and script, although the ship scene did make me feel a bit sea sick.

“I used to have a pet rat called Poopy that could moon walk, so I’m excited about working with rats again (except King Rat, boo!)”

Chief executive of the Everyman Theatre, Mark Goucher said: “It wouldn’t be Christmas without a great family pantomime. We will have a brand new set and costumes, a fantastic cast led by Tweedy and plenty of laughs for the whole family. Book early to make sure that you get the best seats in the house.”

  •  The show opens on Friday, November 24 and runs through to Sunday, January 7. Call the box office on 01242 572573 or visit everymantheatre.org.uk/m-shows/dick-whittington-and-his-cat for tickets.