Traditional panto has broken records at the Woodville Halls in Gravesend this year.

Before it closes for the last time on New Year's Day, Sleeping Beauty could set even more records at the council-run theatre.

It has been seen by more people than any show since 2004.

Takings rocketed despite the recession and budget-priced tickets as thousands turned up.

Tickets cost as little as £3. The top price was just £13.50.

Theatre manager Anita Tysoe said: "It is all the more remarkable that our takings have been the best for seven y ears."

Sleeping Beauty attracted rave reviews.

Praised was heaped on the cast led by comic actor Michael Fenton Stevens as the dame, Nurse Nanny Nora. He also directed the panto for Imagine Theatre.

This is the first time Imagine Theatre has produced the Gravesend pantomime.

Steve Boden, its managing director, said: "We have been utterly delighted by the reaction. The show is a traditional family pantomime, aimed at all the family, and it has gone down a storm.

"The cast are having a great time. This really reflects in the on-stage action and the enjoyment the audiences are obviously having."

Bookings are already being taken for next year’s production – Jack and the Beanstalk – which runs from December 14-31.