It likes to stage shows that are bigger, grander, more lavish and with the big names.

But it provides a dilemma at Christmas. At this time of year, everyone loves a good pantomime - but because everyone else does them, the Mayflower strives to provide something different.

This is their solution - but it doesn't really know whether it's a Christmas show or a good old thigh-slappin', rib-ticklin' panto.

Oh, there are good bits. Stephen Mulhern (best known from Kids Do The Funniest Things on TV) makes an energetic Butto.

Roy Barraclough (for 25 years Alec Gilroy on Corrie) makes as homely a Santa as you'll find anywhere this Christmas, and the flying dragon is a revelation. Marissa Dunlop as Stephen's love interest Chilli Fridge (geddit?) is the star, as the lovelorn ugly duckling.

But there were disappointments, too. Robin Cousins as baddie Jack Frost didn't have the stage presence (or the voice) to quite pull off his role.

There was no grand finale, as the whole show was allowed to peter out. Overall, the experience was like opening presents on Christmas morning: some lovely surprises, plenty of laughs, and a few duds. The kids will lap it up.

» Until January 16.