A POPULAR Weston theatre has reported a record-breaking pantomime season.

During its production of Dick Whittington, The Playhouse Theatre attracted over 21,000 audience members, signalling a "great sign that the times ahead are positive for the arts."

This is despite a 93 per cent decline in ticket sales during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tony Doherty, managing director at Parkwood Theatres, said: "This record-breaking achievement is a great sign that the times ahead are positive for the arts.

"This success highlights Parkwood Theatre’s commitment to providing high-quality experiences to enrich the lives of the local community.”

Dick Whittington follows the story of Richard Whittington, whose friends call him Dick, as he sets off on an adventure to London to find his fame and fortune.

Whilst there, Dick meets a whole host of buddies, including The Cat, Sarah The Cook, Idle Jack, Alderman and Alice Fitzwarren and Fairy Bowbells.

Together, they work to save London from an infestation of rats, controlled by the wicked Queen Rat, played by Linda Lusardi.