As a little boy Matt Wilkin used to marvel at his dad in ladies ' clothing as the panto dame, writes Drew Cochrane.

He grew up with the tradition of Largs Players ' shows which for 25 years featured his father Jon as the wise-cracking principal. Now primary school teacher Matt will step into the spotlight as Prince Charming this year in Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.

The family show written and directed by Ruairidh Forde will be staged at Barrfields Pavilion Theatre from December 8 to 10 including two Saturday matinees. David Edwards as musical director will drill a big chorus and, of course, the seven dwarves who are coming from Largs Youth Theatre.

Also in the talented cast are Rebecca Kane as Snow White, Matt Carnegie as Hamish, Pat Nicol as the Wicked Queen, Jon Wilkin as The Mirror and, in a twist, experienced female actress Jackie Templeton will be the Dame. There is also one of the biggest panto choruses in the country, tutored by Ruairidh, who also choreographs, and musical director David Edwards.

Tickets have gone on sale on www.ticketsource.co.uk/Largs Players or on the hotline of 0333 666 3366 with special family tickets (two adults, two children) at £35. Adult tickets are only £12, children £8 and concessions £10 making it one of the most economical pantos in the land.

As an added bonus there are actually two Saturday matinees...at 1.30pm and 6.30pm to suit folk from Cumbrae and afar!