A BASILDON pantomime has been ranked first in an article by a leading theatre magazine - and it has not even started.

Aladdin, which is being performed at the Towngate Theatre, was marked as the top pantomime pick for 2017 in Stage magazine.

In a tweet by Simon Fielding, who produces, directs and is in the starring role of the pantomime, he wrote: “#1 of Top 10 pantomime picks in ‘The Stage’ - So Happy!”

In the review, the pantomime is described as being “one of the highlights of the Christmas season” and actress Sophie Ladds is praised as being “arguably one of the best female villains in the business.”

The production will begin on Tuesday, November 28, and will run through the Christmas period right up until Tuesday, January 2 next year.

Manager of leisure, open space and community facilities at the Towngate Theatre, Paul Brace, said: “We are beyond delighted to have been ranked as number one in The Stage’s Top 10 Pantomimes Picks For 2017, which has rated the upcoming pantomimes – not just in Essex - but from all across the country.

“We at the Towngate are exceptionally proud of our pantomimes.

“Our pantomimes are always spectacular productions that have all the magic and sparkle as pantos which are staged in much larger venues, but still with family-friendly prices to suit all budgets at this expensive time of year.

“The success of our pantomimes is down to the hard work and dedication from all the people who work tirelessly to make it the best it can be.

“The cast, crew, musicians, ensemble, box office team, front of house and cafe teams all play a huge part in the success, and we couldn’t do it without our incredible pantomime audiences who have been supporting us throughout the years.”

The pantomime impressively beat many other pantomimes performed in larger towns with big names in starring roles.

For instance, Dick Whittingdon, which is being performed at the London Palladium and is starring former Joan Collins Fan Club leader, Julian Clary, came in second place just ahead of a London-based production of Snow White.

This is not the first time that the Towngate Theatre has received recognition for its pantomimes.

Their production of Sleeping Beauty also won a pantomime of the year award.