A SEARCH for the owner of a glass slipper began in earnest last night as Prince Charming started the hunt for his true love.There was magic, laughs, dancing and plenty of fun for all the family in Lowestoft as the prince, played by Owen Woodgate, looked for his happy ever after in the one of the east coast's biggest pantomimes.

A SEARCH for the owner of a glass slipper began in earnest last night as Prince Charming started the hunt for his true love.

There was magic, laughs, dancing and plenty of fun for all the family in Lowestoft as the prince, played by Owen Woodgate, looked for his happy ever after in the one of the east coast's biggest pantomimes.

After months of preparations, it was time for the curtain to be finally raised at the Marina Theatre, as pantomime Cinderella took to the stage for the first of its 41-performance run.

Starring in the production are former Neighbours and Emmerdale actress Anne Charleston, who plays the Fairy Godmother, and children's favourite Dave Benson Phillips, who plays Buttons.

Alongside the big-name attractions are a cast of West End dancers and singers, with Beth Angharad taking the role of Cinderella.

Professional pantomimes returned to the town for the first time in half a century last year with the production of Peter Pan, and the Marina staff are expecting Cinderella to again capture the public's imagination this Christmas.

Speaking ahead of last night's opening, theatre manager Martin Halliday said he was absolutely delighted with the production.

'The producers have assembled a terrific cast and the show is packed full to the brim with great music, dancing and plenty of comedy.

'Our pantomime is such an important part of the Marina calendar and this year's production looks set to be the most lavish ever staged.

'I am certain it will go on to become our most successful productions to date,' he said.

Mr Halliday was able to confirm that sales are already on course to smash last year's record-breaking attendances, but tickets are still available.

Cinderella runs at the Marina Theatre until January 3. Tickets start at �5 with family saver tickets also available.

For more information or to book seats call the box office on 01502 533200.