THE pantomime season is set to get under way in Salisbury next week – with an eggciting production of Mother Goose.

The cast have been throwing themselves into rehearsals at the Playhouse, ready to take centre stage from Wednesday.

The story follows the antics of Mother Goose, who dreams of being rich and beautiful. Her life soon changes with the arrival of a magical, golden egg-laying goose.

Seasoned panto dame Kieran Buckeridge takes on the lead role of Mother Goose, and will be performing alongside his wife Ella Vale as the villainous Demonica Baddegg.

Ella said: “It is a great night or afternoon out for everybody, regardless of age or background. It is a great, silly night out and is a great way to escape the worries of modern life by coming into to the theatre to laugh your socks off and have a good time with other people.”

This is the third year the pair have performed together in the city’s panto. Kieran said: “It is a great place to work and is a lovely theatre.

“It is quite special to come back.”

In addition to his starring role in the show, which is directed by Joyce Branagh and written by Andrew Pollard, Kieran has created the original music.

Unlike traditional panto productions Mother Goose sees the dame take on the lead role, which is a challenge Kieran has enjoyed.

For Ella, this will be the first time she has turned to the dark side and taken on the role of panto villain. She said: “I love being bad and can’t wait to get in front of an audience.”

Audiences can expect plenty of laughs, great music, colourful costumes, amazing sets and lots of opportunities to cheer and boo.

Also starring in the production is Howard Coggins as Squire Dillydally, Lucy Faint as Milly Dillydally, Lacy Jordinson as Priscilla, Johanne Murdock as Fairy Flutter and Robert Rees as Billy Goose.

Mother Goose runs until January 10, 2015. To book tickets call 01722 320333 or go to salisburyplayhouse.com.