This once shadowy figure that hovered on the edge of the Darlings’ dreams is keen to bring them to Neverland to meet the Lost Boys (and girls) who are in need of a mother’s love.

Going to the panto in 2018, in the midst of a gender-centric, #metoo-conscious, politically correct audience has its advantages. With three sons, one takes every opportunity to find teachable moments in our time together. So even though the genie steals the show, the real magic is the powerful princess panto protagonist Jasmine. She’s strong, straight talking, swashbuckling. “This girl doesn’t need looking after,” she tells Aladdin.

Even in this age of political correctness, the pantomime dame endures as a firm favourite. Jo Kerrigan traces the history of a pleasantly outrageous character who has roots in ancient times

Snow White, Cork Opera House

It’s been a bumper year for pop hits, which Sleeping Beauty uses to full effect in a hugely enjoyable production that will entertain all three generations that usually make up panto audiences.