OH YES, it is that time of year again!

Actors in Winchester have been dusting off their Santa hats and applying their stage make up as Theatre Royal officially launches this year’s pantomime.

In its centenary year the theatre has opted for a play with the same theme – the tale of the sleeping princess awaiting her Prince Charming.

At a packed launch event chief executive Mark Courtice said the panto has become a tradition in the city.

“I’m ecstatic at how many people tell me that they are looking forward to it already, and they want to come and have been since they were man and boy,” he said.

“I’m proud that 100 years on we are still part of the warp and weft of the city.”

The theatre boss said he is excited to see a different take on the classic Sleeping Beauty, including a fire breathing dragon, time travel, flying characters, and live music and songs by Simon Slater.

The cast includes star of Think No Evil of Us David Benson, hot off the West End, as Nurse Nelly, as well as Catherine Hayworth (Princess Aurora), Alexander Morelli (Prince Charming), Clive Flint (King Rupert), Andy Medhurst (Joey the Jester), Kate Russell-Smith (Carabosse) and Rosanna Miles (Fairy Sweetheart).

Estate agents Belgarum, bed-specialist Habels, and The Hampshire Chronicle, are sponsoring this year’s event.