Panto season gets under way with Aladdin community day

Themed around the theatre's current production of Aladdin, over 150 children from the local area joined in the free activities, which included face-painting, energetic dramatic workshops, storytelling, Christmas sing-a-long, magic tricks and the chance to mingle with a range of characters from the pantomime. Members of local community organisations, including Waterloo Community Development Group, The Guy Fox History Project and ADI Centre all joined in the fun.

To round off the activities, participants watched a special performance of Aladdin for just a fiver – also sponsored by 3i.

"Building on the reduced-price ticket scheme we offered to local residents every Wednesday throughout Richard II, it is fantastic to be able to offer the local community something extra for Aladdin with 3i's generous support," said education and community officer Steve Winter. "This community day is The Old Vic's Christmas present to Lambeth and Southwark residents – not only could kids explore their creativity with experienced theatre workshop leaders, but also see a sold-out show at an incredible price."

Aladdin, written by Bille Brown, stars Sir Ian McKellen as 'Widow Twankey', Frances Barber and Roger Allam.

• The final performance of Aladdin is on Sunday 22 January.
• Book online for Aladdin with Ticketmaster