PANTO season may feel like a long way off, but for some the work has already started.

Amateur dramatic group Travelling Light Productions, in Witney, is gearing up for its production of Aladdin in December.

The group, set up earlier this year, started practising six weeks ago with a cast of 10 people.

Stephen Moore, 38, who plays pantomine dame Widow Twankey, said the group aims to deliver a professional standard production.

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The NHS worker said: “We’re very excited about bringing a traditional panto to Witney when there’s been a bit of a lull for high-quality pantos in the town. It’s a lot of fun donning a costume and transforming into a different character, creating a lot of laughs and smiles for the audience.

“It’s the first time I’ll be dressing up as a dame.”

The group will hold three performances at the 250-capacity St Mary’s Church in Witney.

The play is written by Paul Knight and will tell the traditional Aladdin pantomine story.

Mr Moore added: “We’re bringing together people who have had acting experience and it will have family friendly humour.”

The production will be staged on Friday, December 5, at 7pm and Saturday, December 6, at 2pm and 7pm.

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