CHRISTMAS wouldn't be complete with a good old fashioned pantomime for all the family ­— oh no it wouldn't!

And families really are spoilt for choice this festive season, with Bolton's celebrated theatre scene putting on some traditional favourites throughout this month and through to February, ensuring Christmas joy can be enjoyed for as along as possible.

Bolton Little Theatre is telling the popular rags to riches story Dick Whittington, which has already won rave reviews. Showing will run until December 16, which will include a number of matinees performances.

For details visit http://www.boltonlittletheatre.co.uk/dick-whittington-30-november-16-december-2018/.

The popular children's story Jack and the Beanstalk is being brought alive by Stagedoor Theatre Productions. Performed at Walmsley Parish Hall Theatre, it will run until December 16. Information can be found at http://www.stagedoor.uk.co.

Audiences can enjoy the magic of Aladdin, which has proved a popular choice by local theatre companies this winter.

The Arabian Night's tale is being staged by St Paul's Players Adlington, opening on December 29, and showing on December 30, 31 and January 4 and 5 at Adlington Community Centre

Victoria Hall ADS will be showing its adaptation of the story as its seasonal production, which will open in the new year. Performances will take place on January 4, 5, 11 12, 18 and 19 at the Victoria Hall. For more information visit http://victoriahallads.com/

The story will also be told by St Joseph's Players at St Joseph's Church Hall, Leigh from January 23 to February 2. Details can be found at http://www.stjosephsplayers.co.uk/

Rehearsals are well underway for St Simon and St Jude ADS's next production ­— the popular fairytale Sleeping Beauty in February at St Simon and St Jude's School from February 20 to 23 at 7.15pm. Ticket information can be found at sssjads.wixsite.com/sssjads

Paul Cohen, chairman of Bolton Amateur Theatre Societies said: "I have seen a few of the pantomimes already and the standard is very high. So much effort has gone into the productions, the scenery the costumes.

"Pantomimes are all about entertaining the audience and there is a lot of audience participation for the children and the adults.

"This year the shows are very well known, Aladdin, Jack and the Beanstalk, the ones everyone knows, and because the cost is low families can go and see more than one. There is something for everyone."