IT'S behind you! That's certainly how Covid felt at the press night of this year's panto.
The Theatre Royal Winchester held its special showing of Wizard of Oz on Tuesday evening. And what an enjoyable success it was.
After two years of struggles, the has venue battled through the pandemic, lockdowns and a series of unforeseen incidents forcing some shows to be rescheduled.
However this week the show was well and truly back on the stage.
Last year, the panto - Aladdin - was excellent but mask-wearing was still in force, as was an element of social distancing.
This year, the Wizard of Oz, put on by Theatre Royal's own arts and entertainment charity Play to the Crowd, was slick, professional and just the right level of silly so the whole family can enjoy it.
Audience participation was encouraged, with singing and cheering, and the crowd joined in with full gusto (no masks in the way).
The cast were all excellent, especially Abigail Coy who played a wonderful Dorothy, perfectly cast. This is her professional debut after uni, and one that she should be proud of.
READ MORE: Meet the cast of The Wizard of Oz coming to Theatre Royal Winchester
Winchester's best panto dame Julian Eardley was back with a dual role, the bountiful Aunt Em and the lovable Lion.
Also excellent, and endearing, was Libby Gore as the Tin Man and Max Gallagher as the Scarecrow.
Of course, The Wizard of Oz wouldn't be the same without Glinda the Good Witch and the Wicked Witch of the West, played with just the right element of evilness, and Oz himself.
A fantastic support cast, with beautiful scenery and costumes, was topped off by the best supporting actor a man can ask for - Lily the dog as Toto.
Deryck Newman, chief executive, gave a speech to the assembled VIPs before the show.
He said: "It's not just a panto, it's a beautiful story told with love and care."
And with an uncomplicated storyline, the right level of humour, excellent casting and a great set - the Wizard of Oz will make any family's Christmas that little bit more festive.
The show runs until January 2.
For tickets go to theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk/whats-on/wizard-oz
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