ANCIENT Rome wasn’t built in a day, but the Actorcrats promise to do a pretty good job of demolishing all it stands for in a couple of hours.

This year’s Christmas show by the Shoebury-based players is a twist on the traditional panto.

Out go the fairies and princes and in come lots of Romans in robes.

“But all the traditional elements of pantomime are still there, like the Dame and the evil villain,” assures director Andee Byford.

“And there will still be plenty of chances to shout, ‘he’s behind you.’”

The Pompeii Panto is inspired by the classic Frankie Howard TV sitcom, Up Pompeii!

“We always try to do something a bit different at Christmas, but this seemed particularly suitable because of Frankie’s association with Shoebury,” says Andee.

The great comedian was stationed at Shoebury barracks during the Second World War, and retained a strong association with Southend, performing there regularly throughout his life.

Andee also has a more personal reason for choosing Pompeii as a setting, as he and his wife spent part of their honeymoon there.

The panto frolics begin with the arrival of the emperor Nero in Pompeii, and the evil Bilious plots to overthrow him.

Meanwhile, the randy Dame has rather different designs on his person.

Andee says: “Like all the best pantos, there are two levels of humour. It’s perfect for kids. But adults can also enjoy lots of double entendres!”

The Pompeii Panto is at Friars Community Hall, tomorrow until Saturday, at 8pm. Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets cost £5, £3.50 conc. Call 01702 306506.