Foreword by Malcolm Stent:
Christmas time, or so they say, is a time for families, and when families come together to enjoy each other's company, and a visit to pantomime.

This Christmas will be a very special one for my family ... my daughter Becky has returned to England from New Zealand, and hopefully is back for good. Then my son Tim and his wife Emily have presented us with a beautiful granddaughter, Lillie Mary. We look forward to enjoying her very first Christmas ... she's too young for panto this year ... but who knows, next year she may be enjoying her first ever show!

I fully realise that not everyone will be spending Christmas with their families, and that maybe someone on your row in the this theatre today will be alone or missing their nearest and dearest. Why not have a quick chat, spread a smile, and include them with your own family, in the fun here today?

After all, isn't that what a panto is all about ...? joining forces with the rest of the audience no matter how old or young you are ... and having a great time!

With warm wishes to you all.

Merry Christmas

Malcolm Stent