Panto tickets have gone on sale for the Durham Gala Theatre's Christmas performance.

The Gala's Christmas pantomime for 2019 is Aladdin, and the show will be on for well over a month both in the run up to Christmas and into the New Year.

When is the Gala Theatre Durham Christmas panto on?

The Gala Theatre panto begins on Thursday November 21 2019 and runs until Sunday January 5 2020. Performances will take place at various times and will include British Sign Language performances on Sunday December 8 at 1pm and Thursday January 2 at 1pm, as well as a captioned performance on Thursday January 2 at 1pm.

There will also be a relaxed performance without loud noises or flashing lights for people with autism and sensory issues on Wednesday November 27 at 1.30pm.

How much do Gala pantomime tickets cost?

Panto tickets cost from £7 to £18, with family tickets starting at £54. You can book tickets on the Gala website at www.galadurham.co.uk or by calling 03000 266 600.

Read next: Child-friendly family events in Durham

What's the panto about this year?

Featuring a magical flying carpet, Aladdin audiences will be transported to exotic locations such as China, Egypt and even Sacriston, following the streetwise hero as he attempts to make his town rich by marrying a princess, meeting Widow Twanky and lovable laundry lad Wishee Washee along the way.

Tickets for the Durham Gala panto Aladdin are on sale
Tickets for the Durham Gala panto Aladdin are on sale

However, the evil baddie Abanazar's quest for gold, riches and world domination could scupper Aladdin's plans. Once again Neil Armstrong and Paul Hartley have written and directed the pantomime and will star as Abanazar and Wishee Washee respectively.  

Joining them on stage at the Durham City venue will be Paul Dunn as Widow Twanky, David Hosie as Aladdin, Eleanor Chaganis as Princess Jasmine, Pip Chamberlin as the Genie and Kylie Ann Ford as Chief Inspector Tai Chi.

Robin Byers, Gala Theatre manager, said: "It just wouldn't be Christmas without the Gala panto and this year's production of Aladdin is sure to make the festivities even more magical.

"It's always a pleasure to work with Paul and Neil and we have loads of fun developing ideas for the show, which we can't wait to share with our Durham audiences. They have certainly delivered yet again, with a wonderful script that breathes fresh life and humour into this classic tale.

"Add dazzling costumes, spectacular effects and a host of surprises into the mix and you have everything you need for the perfect Christmas outing."

Read next: More Christmas stories on our dedicated festive page