YES it's that time of year again, when theatres echo to the rafters with boos, hisses, cheers and shouts of 'he's behind you'.

The pantomime season is nearly here, and the Millfield Theatre in Silver Street, Edmonton, is preparing for action .

This year, it will be putting on a performance of Jack and the Beanstalk, for a month of shows from December 6 until January 6, 2002.

The Millfield Christmas shows always includes plenty of audience participation and promises a good time for all ages.

There are a number of familiar faces in the cast for the fairytale favourite, including EastEnders' stars Mark Monero and Troy Titus-Adams, as Fleshcreep and Princess Jasmin.

Carol Cleveland, who you may recognise from Monty Python, as the wicked queen, and Roger Bremble as Dame Trott. Jack, the hero, is played by Peter Shreeves, making his return to Edmonton, having started his acting career at the Millfield's Youth Theatre.

The director of the extravaganza, for the 11th year running, is Bonnie Lythgoe, who started her theatre career in acting but went into choreography and direction of musical productions, including work in the West End. She is also head of musical productions at the prestigious Italia Conti school for performing arts.

Tickets are already selling fast, especially for showings before Christmas. Tickets cost between £8 and £14.

To make a booking call the Millfield Box Office on 8807 6680.