From local gags to larger-than-life Dames, Scotland’s pantomimes are once again delivering laughs, magic and a healthy dose of festive chaos.

Across the country, theatres big and small are putting their own spin on familiar fairy tales, mixing tradition with sharp contemporary humour and plenty of community spirit.

Whether it’s glittering underwater adventures, gallus re-workings of classic stories or heartfelt productions that bring families together, this year’s pantos offer something for all ages.

Here’s our pick of the shows stealing the spotlight across Scotland this festive season. Oh no they aren’t… oh yes they are!

The Gaiety Theatre, Ayr

(Image: Tommy Ga-Ken Wan)

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Location, location, location… At Ayr Gaiety, that means lots of local colour in the pantomime - a genial nod to the community that supports the venue throughout the year. So, even though the set harbours details that suggest we’re in Old China, we’re actually in Old Cumnock New Town - home to Widow Twankey and her two kids, son Aladdie and daughter Alassie.

He’s a chirpy, happy-go-lucky chap, she’s a confident, outspoken young miss who swiftly invites us all to be in her gang - shout out ‘Hallelujah!’ and you’re in with her all-singing, all-dancing crowd. Lewis Kerr and Ciara Flynn (respectively) deliver their larger than life characters with merry aplomb - they’re a credit to Widow Twankey (Fraser Boyle who wrote the script as well as Dame-ing it with gusto).

Tron Theatre, Glasgow

(Image: Mihaela Bodlovic)

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Welcome to the Pantosphere - where a pothole in the pavement becomes a magical portal into a mysterious other world. ‘Aye, right’, you’re thinking. But suspend your disbelief, sit back and follow Alice, as she takes a leap into the unknown and finds - Weegieland! She’ll also find what’s dashing her hopes of being a confident, exam-passing dancer: innermost qualities of love, imagination and bravery (alongside knowing which foot is left or right, of course).

Ah, Weegieland - ruled over by a bossy-boots Queenie of Hearts who demands loyal and adoring attention and can turn very nasty when thwarted. Is she really going to let........

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