PANTO season is in full swing in Colwyn Bay with Theatr Colwyn's Dick Whittington getting audiences in the festive spirit.
The Pioneer caught up with actor and director Daniel Woodhouse mere days before opening night talk about this year's show.
"Lots of singing, dancing, and laughing," confirmed Daniel when asked what this year's panto is sure to include.
With set pieces scattering the historic venue and deliveries of UV paint still arriving during our quick interview between rehearsals, you could be forgiven for thinking directing a pantomime could be one of the most stressful experiences to undertake.
"It's a good pressure," said Daniel. "I'm here virtually all the time rehearsing, sorting the sets. I'm in first thing in the morning until very late at night. But it's good."
But even amidst the fluster, the impressive props and colourful costumes indicate the show is set to be a huge success.
The classic tale follows a young man who seeks his fortune in London, believing the streets are paved with gold.
But with the sinister King Rat determined to stop him, can there be a happy ending?
Ticking all the boxes of heroes, villains, jokes and songs; the production also boasts an eclectic cast from across the country (including Daniel who also plays the role of Idle Jack).
Priding itself on being a traditional pantomime in every sense of the word, Dick Whittington promises to offer something different to other shows happening across North Wales.
"The larger venues have a spectacle - and people will still go and enjoy those - but here it is more intimate and we can engage with the audience," explained Daniel. "When you're on stage you can still make eye contact with someone who is sitting right at the back which really draws the audience in."
With many performances throughout December for the cast ("It's the busiest time for actors.") it is the spontaneity of the genre which keeps all crew on their toes.
"The great thing about pantomime is including the audience. Sometime things can go wrong and if we let the audience in it can work. If something goes wrong they love that. It's something special that no other audience has seen and it keeps every performance fresh."
So what can audiences expect to enjoy when they come to watch Dick Whittington?
"A Christmas tradition," assured Daniel.
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Dick Whittington will be showing at Theatr Colwyn until January 3. For more information or to book tickets contact the Box Office on 01492 532668.