The countdown to Christmas is underway - and that means it's getting close to Panto time!

So the half-term holiday has provided young dancers from Northampton, who will be featuring in The Deco Theatre's 'Aladdin' Panto between November 30 and Christmas Eve, the opportunity to start rehearsing for their roles in the show, which stars singer Chesney Hawkes and former Hollyoaks actress Melissa Walton.

Under the instruction of choreographer and dancer Stuart Saint, who will also be appearing in the show, 30 dancers are using their week off school to start preparing for their part in the Panto.

"They're all working very hard, and they are all very talented young performers," said Stuart. "I'm extremely impressed, not just with the standards, but with the attitude and enthusiasm of them all, and they're very excited about being a part of 'the one and only' Panto in Northampton this Christmas."

Tickets start from £9.50 with special group and family discounts available.  For more information, call the box office on 01604 935678 or visit www.decotickets.co.uk.