That's the message from the Customs House as thousands of tickets have already been snapped up for this year's panto.

Having cleared the waiting lists for tickets from schools and parties the theatre is reminding regulars to book tickets early.

After a record-breaking run of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, demand for this year's production, Sleeping Beauty, has never been greater
Thirty-five years after they first appeared together in panto, Ray Spencer and Bob Stott will be leading the madness, mayhem and chaos.

And to help make the show more affordable, the Customs House has announced a price freeze on all tickets.

Operations director Peter Darrant said: "With the current climate we felt it would be wrong to increase ticket prices, so we arestaying the same as last year, and already it has been a success.

"We have already sold 4,000 tickets to the waiting list, which in itself is a new record."

Executive director Ray Spencer, who will play Tommy in the show, added: "It's fair to say the pantomime is the highlight of the year for many people in South Tyneside and for all the staff who work at the Customs House."

Mr Spencer also revealed the planning that goes into making the show the success that it is.

He said: "To most people panto is a once-a-year treat.

"To the Customs House it's a year-long planning project. Before one is over the next is being planned.

"We have already had families wanting to book for panto 2010, so don't miss out."

Sleeping Beauty runs from Wednesday, December 2 until Sunday, January 3.
Tickets start at £6.50 and can be purchased by calling the box office on 0191 454 1234 or by visiting www.customshouse.co.uk