After weeks of anticipation, the Marina Theatre's annual pantomime is set to return to the stage.

With an all-star cast and a timeless tale, this year's production promises to be a hit for the whole family to enjoy.

After last year's production of Beauty and the Beast, another family favourite will be performed throughout the festive period – Aladdin.

With just days remaining until first curtain, the butterflies will be beginning to form in the stomachs of all those involved in the run of performances.

Leading man Mark Read of the boyband A1, who is playing the title role, said: 'Rehearsals have been amazing, but extremely tiring with a lot of funny dance routines to learn.

'I am doing things I never thought I would be doing - I can't give too much away, but it is going to be the best Aladdin ever.

'The show has action, adventure, comedy, great songs and dancing and I am really looking forward to calling the Marina Theatre my home during December.'

The role of the Genie of the Lamp will be played by Aaron Spendelow, who is returning to the theatre for the first time in seven years, after performing in a children's show called Little Big Club in 2010.

He said: 'Rehearsals have been fantastic so far - all the cast are lovely and we are all brilliant playing our roles.

'We have set the whole show and now we are just refining little bits and bobs.

'You can expect lots of energy, fun and interactivity within the show and I can't wait to meet the audiences of Lowestoft.'

Also starring in the performance is former politician and Strictly Come Dancing contestant Ann Widdecombe, who will be playing the Empress of China.

The first performance takes place at 10am on Wednesday, December 13, with a second show taking place at 1.30pm the same day.

There will then be 30 further opportunities to see the production, with times varying depending on the day of the week.

The final performance will be held at 3pm on New Year's Day.

Full details of when the performances are taking place, how much tickets cost and how to book your seat, visit the Marina Theatre website.