Oh yes it is panto season again, and I was lucky enough to see Whitehaven Theatre Group’s dress rehearsal of Frosted on Sunday night.

Seeing the performance has really kick-started Christmas for me, I left feeling incredibly seasonal and full of good will.

The show has all the essential elements of a traditional panto, from the baddies to the creature ‘that’s behind you’, but has the twist of being based on a modern story, with the added bonus of some ingenious costume changes and stunning special effects.

Director Shaun Donald said: “This has been one of my most challenging, but enjoyable projects to date. Aided by what can only be described as a sensational production team. After seeing it in its full glory at our dress and technical rehearsal on Sunday night, you can see the pride and passion each and every person involved has for the art, and what they do.”

A real effort has been made to transform Market Hall into a winter wonderland, complimented by the glittery outfits of the cast.

Choreography and stage composition is excellent with the stage being used to its full potential. I was impressed with the singing as some of those Frosted songs can be quite tricky to accomplish, but the cast made it sound easy.

Shaun added: “The sense of emotions during some elements of the show brings it to reality, and proves what we have achieved this year is something special.”

“Everyone involved should be as proud of themselves, as I am of them all. I cannot wait until Tuesday when we start bringing something special to the people of West Cumbria, and cast and crew alike deserve full houses each and every night.”

The cast has been rehearsing since September and it shows as the dialogue and timing is polished.

I’m sure this one will be talked about for many years to come, so if you want to see a magical show that features dancing reindeer and snowmen, don’t let this one go and get your tickets at £8 to £10 for Frosted, which runs from December 10 to 15 at Market Hall, Egremont, from www.whitehaventheatregroup.com; or call 075880 51942.