The Palace Theatre officially launched their Christmas panto last week - oh yes they did!

Stars of this year's production, which is the tale of Dick Whittington, were up to mischief when they met at the theatre to officially launch the show.

Director and star of the show, Liam Dolan who plays comedy character Idle Jack, was joined by fellow panto favourites Adele Rankin who plays Alice Fitzwarren, Louise McCarthy as Fairy Bowbells and Susanne Donaldson who takes the title role of Dick Whittington.

The fab four got to try on their costumes and get into character for the first time before rehearsals start in early November.

Liam Dolan said: "It was great meeting up with the girls to officially launch the show last week. Once rehearsals start we become our own little panto family, so it is always nice to catch up before the madness starts!

"This year's show is going to be my sixth panto at the Palace and I can't wait. The best thing about panto is being able to interact with the audience, everyone always gets so involved which as an actor gives you a great buzz." Adele Rankin said: "I am always so excited on panto launch day as it is the first time I get to try on my costume! This year will be my fifth at the Palace and I can't wait." "We always have such a blast and the audiences are the best you could ask for. My friends are so jealous as I have the best job come Christmas time!" The show is produced by Imagine Theatre in association with East Ayrshire Arts and Museums section.

Dick Whittington runs from November 25 - December 30, 2010. For more information on tickets call the box office on 01563 554900 or visit the website www.visiteastayrshire.com