Scottish version of Aladdin to be festive panto in Paisley

PACE Theatre Company will put on the show at the town's arts centre from November 27 until January 5.

The production will have a distinctly Scottish flavour and will include the company's trademark mix of audience participation, original music, and comedy.

Artistic director Jenni Mason said: "It’s a pleasure to announce that this year’s panto will be a Scottish version of Aladdin, which will feature PACE’s trademark blend of original music, audience participation, comedy, and traditional family fun.

"Our aim is to offer an entertaining and affordable way for families and friends to celebrate the festivities together, with something for everyone to enjoy.

"We’re thrilled to be returning to Paisley Arts Centre, the traditional home of the PACE panto, and can’t wait to welcome our audiences back to this beautifully refurbished venue."

The production will include the company's trademark mix of audience participation, original music and comedy

PACE has been putting on pantomimes at Paisley Arts Centre since 1988 and is excited to return to the venue.

The cast will be led by Chris Alexander and Alan Orr, who have extensive pantomime experience.

Andy McGregor will return as writer and director.

He has previously worked on successful productions such as Battery Park, Crocodile Rock, and Spuds.

Fraser Lappin will be in charge of set and costume design.

His previous work for PACE includes There's No Room in Our Bathroom for Lewis Capaldi and previous pantos such as Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and The Snow Queen.

Four teams of young actors from PACE's youth theatre groups will also take to the stage.

Future Paisley, a cultural regeneration partnership programme, sponsors Aladdin.

Katie Nicoll, cultural regeneration lead officer, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to sponsor PACE Theatre’s return to Paisley Arts Centre with their new adaption of Aladdin.

"It is such a popular event in Renfrewshire’s cultural calendar and will bring audiences from across the region and beyond to the newly refurbished and greatly loved cultural venue in the heart of the town.

"It’s also an exceptional platform for our highly talented young people to pursue creativity and the arts by taking to the stage and experiencing everything that live performance can offer."

OneRen, the organisation that operates the arts centre, is also excited to host the annual pantomime.

Deputy business development director Michelle Woods said: "OneRen are delighted to host PACE Theatre’s annual panto once again in Paisley Arts Centre.

"It is vital for Renfrewshire residents to have access to a wide range of live cultural activity on their doorstep.

"The newly refurbished venue, in the heart of Paisley, will reopen its doors to audiences young and old, to experience high-quality theatre, where families and friends join together for an unmissable festive experience."

With a reputation for producing some of the best family pantomimes in Scotland, and regularly playing to audiences of more than 10,000 during the festive season, PACE promises an unforgettable experience.

Tickets for Aladdin are on sale now on Pace Theatre's website and at the Paisley Arts Centre box office.