OH no it isn't! Oh yes it is - time that is for next season's pantos to be announced.

Following the success of last year's Snow White, which saw pantomime back at the Towngate in Basildon after an abscene of 10 years, this year the theatre welcomes Cinderella to the stage.

Theatre manager Paul Brace says: "It comes after thousands of people flocked to see Snow White, the theatre's first panto in a decade.

Snow White was a huge success and proved how much panto has been missed in Basildon.

"We're hoping to go one better this year with a modern and mischievous take on the classic tale of Cinderella. This will feature a mix of cheeky comedy, infectious pop songs, and colourful sets and costumes."

The cast is being kept a closely guarded secret although one member has already been named.

Simon Fielding, who directed Snow White last year and won plaudits as Muddles, is again in charge and will also star as Buttons.

The show is set to run at the Towngate between December 4 2008 and January 4 2009.

Tickets are on sale now from the box office on 01268 465465.

At the Cliffs Pavilion in Westcliff the Chuckle Brothers head the cast for Aladdin, which has been dubbed the adventure of a lifetime'.

The children's television favourites star as Wishee and Washee in the show which runs at the Station Road venue from December 5 2008 to January 4 2009.

Tickets for Aladdin are available for the Cliffs Pavilion box office on 01702 351135.