THE boos, the hisses, the cry of "oh yes it is" and "oh no it isn't", will all be included in this special Christmas panto returning to crease the crowds up this year, with a heavy dose of live off-the-cuff chaos.

The Oh Yes It Is panto production is improvised and controlled by the audience, who, along with cheering, will shout out locations, characters and a whole host of other ideas that'll get the cast into mischief.

The reputation of Oh Yes It Is has proved so popular to date, that two shows - Friday and Saturday night - sold out during November, which was previously unheard of!

Following its successful run of shows at the Alex pub in Southend in 2016, this time the show is taking place at the Palace Theatre's Dixon Studio, in London Road, Westcliff.

Actress and improviser Ali James, who spearheads Oh Yes It Is, said: "The show really is going from strength to strength and we are loving the theatrical setting of the theatre, which really means we can add so much more in terms of effects, music and space, so we've really moved towards it being a full blown panto.

"Mencap have supplied our costume and stock - our production values have really gone up."

The cast include John Oakes, a stand-up comedian who will be hosting the show; Ross Bishop, an actor and improviser; Wendy Morgan, actress and singer; Davey Hal, musician; Gemma Bennett, actress and choreographer; Jez Battersby, actor and improviser; a three piece orchestra and two guest players, Ashley Edwards and award winning actress Susan Hanson.

"We try to get in as many difference classic parts of panto that we can" said Ali. "There's always a crazy creature involved and whatever the audience tell us to do, we will do. Because of the nature of the show, every single one is unique."

The matinee performances are suitable for children while the evening shows are for adults only.

It opens on Wednesday December 13 - Saturday December 16.

Group rates are available.

Call the box office on 01702 351135 or visit southendtheatres.org.uk for booking and more information.