DO pantomimes need to change their plots and live in the 21st century?

Mark Pemberton, the National Operatic and Dramatic Association's chief executive, has said he thinks theatre producers should look at fresh ideas, like a Big Brother panto.

He says that a lack of originality in new scripts for amateur shows was threatening the future of the festive tradition. And that traditional shows like Cinderella and Mother Goose are past their sell-by date.

Funny, then, that Aladdin at Bolton's Albert Halls is coming to the end of another record-breaking run, and another production of this well-loved panto at The Lowry is Manchester's top show.

Pantos are all about tradition, familiarity and innocent fun. Updating them would certainly modernise them, but they would be irrevocably spoiled, too. Keep them just as they are, and long may they delight generations of families.