A talented cast has been treading the boards and putting in numerous hours of hard work ahead of panto season at a popular theatre.

The opening performance of Lowestoft's big family pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, takes place at the Marina Theatre next Thursday, December 12.

And The Marina is expecting record-breaking numbers for this year's panto, with more than 15 schools visiting to watch the show before they break up for the Christmas holidays.

Demand has been so high that the theatre has also added an extra performance to cater for one school, who wanted to bring more than 700 children.

Collabro's singing sensation Michael Auger will headline as Prince Charming in this year's traditional family panto.

Michael is joined by Lowestoft's favourite funny-man, Terry Gleed, who returns to the Marina for his fifth consecutive year, this time in the role of Snow White's loveable sidekick, Muddles.

Before rehearsals began Terry has had fun visiting five schools, two Christmas Light switch-on's andhe even did some weeding in Kensington Gardens.

He also particularly enjoyed visiting the Topcats charity in Pakefield and finding about all the wonderful care and support that they provide.

The Marina has once again teamed up with Paul Holman Associates, this time bring audiences the story of the Wicked Queen who discovers that she is no longer the fairest in the land.

With stunning scenery and spectacular costumes, this panto is bursting with great songs, fantastic dance routines, laugh-out-loud comedy and plenty of fun and silliness for all the family.

Paul Holman, who put on his very first pantomime in a Lowestoft church hall aged 15, has now produced more than 400 productions across the country.

Ahead of this year's panto, Mr Holman said: "It gives me great pleasure to be returning to my home town of Lowestoft to present for an eighth year the family pantomime at the Marina Theatre, where we are always made to feel most welcome".

You can catch Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Marina Theatre from Thursday, December 12 to Wednesday, January 1.

A sign language performance is held on Saturday, December 28 at 7pm and a relaxed performance on Sunday, December 29 at 1pm.

Book tickets online at www.marinatheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01502 533200.