For the first time in years (literally!) tonight, we were allowed to experience pantomime again in its truest sense. A talented cast, a packed auditorium and a buzz that's palpable in the air.

This production of Aladdin see's The Grand partner with Evolution Productions to create an in-house offer which punches well above its weight. A stellar cast, stunning set, visual effects and song choices made for an evening that was perfect for every generation of the family.

Aladdin is a pantomime in its purest sense. This is classic, family friendly, festive fun at its best. Featuring hints of pop-culture the show managed to keep the audiences attention without too many gimmicks. We had the standard jokes at the expense of the host city, jibes at politicians and comment on the issues the country is facing, but the biggest reactions came from proper British slapstick humour, innuendo and the classic 'funny' panto tracks that draw the crowds each year.

One staple of pantomime is the comedy sidekick. Whether it's a Buttons or a Muddles, in recent years the calibre of performer taking these roles has become almost as important as your headliners.

Tam Ryan is fast becoming a Black Country staple. He was simply exceptional as Wishee Washee this evening, with a whole host of one liners, dad jokes and quips about Tettenhall in his arsenal. Easily one of the best of his kind, Ryan has been adopted by the Black Country and is welcome back as 'our' panto funny-man any time.

C-Beebies staple, Ben Cajee is a good pair of hands for our leading man and, alongside Sofie Anne as Princess Jasmine, the duo definitely hold their own with a great chemistry.

Zoe Birkett excels as the Spirit of the Ring. Birkett has an outstanding singing voice which has seen her lead casts in the West End - and for very good reason. Michael Greco, was also a firm fan favourite, even before rehearsals began. That level of popularity is clearly deserved as his take on Abanazar is up there, for me, with some of the best panto villains I've ever seen. Subtle and evil as opposed to exaggerated and unbelievable, Greco really shone on stage this evening.

This production of Aladdin is, quite simply, a classic pantomime executed perfectly - a bright and joyous show with the classic panto message at its heart. With a small cast of performers, each of whom work their socks off and give it their all to create a show with an impressive level of laughs, smiles, sass and charisma.

Aladdin plays at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre until Saturday 7th January 2023. For more information, or to get your tickets, visit grandtheatre.co.uk.