Eager Maidstonians packed the Hazlitt Theatre to the rafters ready for a night of panto fun from Sleeping Beauty.

The audience were so up for the show, it only took a couple of "my costume's louder than you" gags to get everyone cheering, clapping and wooping.

Set in the village of Maidstonia, the show was packed with musical numbers - it felt like about 90% of the show was singing and dancing, but as it was of a high quality, it did not feel like any dialogue was missing.

Maidstone's own Bethany Black was definitely wicked as the Wicked Queen and had dance moves and a voice to match, not to mention an enviable figure in her catsuit. Craig Anderson as the Jester, who bore more than a passing resemblance to Mr Tumble in his outfit, was great at keeping the crowd going.

Adam Borzone as Nurse Nellie also had a great way with the crowd - and Dave, the lucky man singled out in the front row tonight - and the shapeliest dame's legs I've ever seen.

EastEnders' Louisa Lytton may be a decade older than the 16-year-old celebrating her birthday that she was playing, but you'd never know. She also had the chance to show off some Strictly moves towards the end of the show in spectacular form - complete with a lift - while the Prince of her dreams (Hector Mitchell-Turner) was quite a find, with several scenes showing off his voice and acting to its full.

The young dancers gave it their all and there was not a foot wrong through the whole show.

The show was full of laughs, as well as top quality musical numbers, effects, costumes and plenty of audience participation and was, for me, a step up from last year's show. The show is halfway through its run and is at the Hazlitt Theatre until Monday, January 2.

Tickets from £12. To book, visit parkwoodtheatres.co.uk or call 01622 758611.

We had a chat with Louisa about her plans for Christmas Day. To find out more, click here.