COLOURFUL characters from the Queen’s Theatre’s panto joined Santa to launch the shopping centre’s Christmas grotto today (Monday November 15).

Entertainment at the event, from 2pm- 4pm, included Christmas carols and favourite festive melodies from Queen’s performers, the Sanders Draper Signing Choir, wind and brass band Tradz, and Hornchurch-based choir Dawn Chorus.

Santa’s grotto is open from Monday to Saturday from 10am–5pm and on Sundays from 11am–4pm, plus extended opening hours during Christmas late night shopping.

Aladdin is bursting with a whole host of exciting characters - the whole family can giggle at the hilarious dame Widow Twankey, join in with Wishee Washee’s silly games, boo the evil Abanazar and be swept away by the magnificent Genie’s magical powers.

And best of all, everyone gets to go on an exciting adventure with brave, handsome Aladdin to help rescue beautiful Princess Jasmine!

Widow Twankey and Wishee Washee will also be entertaining crowds at the Christmas Lights switch-on in Romford Market Place tomorrow (Tuesday November 16 at 5.30pm).

Aladdin, which is sponsored by The Mall, will be performed at the Queen’s, in Billet Lane, Hornchurch from December 4–January15.

Tickets are �13.50-�21, with discounts for groups and families.

To book, call the Box Office on: 01708 443333 or book online at: www.queens-theatre.co.uk