PUPILS at Kempshott Junior School were given a surprise when Aladdin flew into the school on his flying carpet.

Some of the cast of this year’s pantomime at The Anvil made a stop off at the Old Down Close school to give the youngsters a taste of this year’s show.

CBBC’s Mark Rhodes and Chris Pizzey visited the school last Friday to explain the traditions of panto and to give the pupils a taste of what to expect at a performance.

There were plenty of jokes and audience participation, a magic trick from Chris and a song from Mark.

The children also found out what is like to be a pantomime Dame when one willing volunteer from Year 6 dressed up in Widow Twankey’s costume, with full make-up and a bonnet to finish the look off.

Headteacher at Kempshott Junior School Fiona Craig said: “The children were thrilled to meet Chris and Mark, they were captivated throughout. It was such a great way to end the week and the staff loved it as much as the children”.

Chris who will be directing this year’s panto along with performing as Aladdin’s brother Wishee Washee added “We had a fantastic afternoon at the school, and it gave me a chance to get some feedback from the children before we all get into rehearsals.

“Mark and I can’t wait to come back to The Anvil; we love performing there and are looking forward to seeing everyone this Christmas.”

Along with Mark and Chris, they will be joined by soap-star Mark Moraghan will will reprise his role of the evil Abanazar.

Featuring magnificent scenery, beautiful costumes, lamp-fulls of laughter and an Aladdin’s cave of stupendous surprises, this traditional pantomime is a genie-us way for the whole family to spend a night out together.

Aladdin runs at The Anvil from 12 December to 5 January. Tickets can be bought from the Anvil Arts box office be calling 01256 844244 or visiting anvilarts.org.uk.