ALADDIN -- This year's pantomime at Cross Ash was a rip-roaring success. There were four performances to large audiences over the Bank Holiday weekend. Every year, the Cross Ash panto is something to look forward to and this year it was better than ever. The entire cast and production team threw themselves into it with gusto and gave great entertainment to the audience. They are all to be congratulated on their success. The producer this year was Len Lane, musical director David Nicholas, lighting and sound Tony Phillips and Ed Baylis. The costumes, which were fantastic, were in the capable hands of Trease Lane and Sue Vater. There was a large cast, too numerous to mention all by name. There were some outstanding performances. One was that of Abanazer, (David Nicholas); elegant, handsome but evil, he caused a good deal of hissing and booing whenever he appeared. Widow Twanky, the dame, played by Simon Tyler, was another star. From beginning to end she was every inch a dame and was a huge success. There was music, dancing, fun and laughter, all the ingredients of pantomime, including plenty of audience participation. During the interval, refreshments were served and a raffle was drawn. Then it was back to the second half and more fun and laughter. Just before the grand finale a large and wonderful dragon entered the hall and wound its way around the room. It had a fierce red and green head and a golden body and lots of little pairs of legs! It was quite spectacular. As the dragon left the hall the cast all came on stage in turn, to loud applause, and took their bows. It was a happy and colourful scene and rounded off a splendid evening's entertainment.