YET again, that fantastic lamp rewards the deserving (though not before causing trouble when in the wrong hands), as this colourful tale unfolds on stage.

This year the script is by Geoff Coventry, who has written so many shows for the Wranglers.

Fortunately, as should always be the case in panto, the plot doesn't stray far from the familiar story, and the production achieves a near-perfect balance between narrative, song, dance and comedy.

Director/choreographer Wendy Holmes has pulled out all the stops for another top-drawer show, aided by the band under David Lodge, first-class dancers, well- disciplined and winsome tots, some fresh and attractive scenery and masses of striking costumes.

Kathy Jacobs makes a striking Aladdin, everything a principal boy should be, paired with Samantha White in the rather thankless role of Princess Po-Ye.

Malcolm Giles is a commanding Abanzar, his evil offset by his gormless daughters Won Too and Too Won (Gilly Giles and Alison Davis).

Gareth Davis is an enthusiastically experienced Widow Twankey, this year enjoying better comic material than has sometimes been his lot, and Simon Couch scores as carefree Wishee Washee.

Gareth Holmes is an imposing and hyperactive Genie of the Lamp, while as policemen Peter Hocking and Carl Fraser add some slightly more sophisticated comedy.

Geoff himself is the sycophantic Wazir to Po-Ye's hatchet of a mother, the Empress Po Face (Carol Anne Taylor), and there's a cuddly camel (Lorraine Pitcher and Nick Butcher) who turns into the voluptuous Cleo (Kathryn Longley). Total commitment and panache ensure a family treat that's well up to standard.