HERE’S a quirky cast of characters you won’t find napping on the job - well, maybe just one of them.

The cast of Sleeping Beauty, this year’s festive offering at the Towngate Theatre, in Basildon town centre, are counting the days until their barnstorming show begins.

Set to run at the St Martin’s Square theatre from Wednesday, November 30 through to Tuesday, January 3, Sleeping Beauty will follow on from the success of last year’s pantomime spectacular Jack And The Beanstalk - which broke box office records.

Basildon’s panto stalwarts, Simon Fielding and Sophie Ladds, will again be teaming up to grace the stage as the loveable Jangles and evil Maleficent respectively.

They will be joined by Aimee Barrett as Princess Aurora, Zac Hamilton as Prince Philip, Daniel Stockton as Dame Dolly Dumpling, Jane Horn as Fairy Moonbeam and Mark Faith as King Barry of Basildonia.

Audiences are being promised stunning scenery, colourful costumes, dazzling dancers and a fantastic full live band at every performance – oh yes they are.

Some performances - which are suitable for the whole family - have already sold out, so remember, if you snooze, you lose.

Secure your tickets by calling the box office on 01268 465465 or visiting towngatetheatre.co.uk