If there's a theatrical tonic for the winter blues, it's Pass the Spoon at the Howard Assembly Room, Leeds. This isn't merely a show – it's a gloriously unhinged prescription for seasonal levity that demands immediate attention. Miss it at your peril.

Ooh, it’s that time of year again – oh yes it is!

'Welcome to the greatest show on Earth,' proclaimed the banner above the stage at Darlington Hippodrome for the start of this year's pantomime, which is very loosely based on the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears mixed with a knowing nod to The Greatest Showman and Barnum musicals.

We were accompanied to this year’s Harrogate pantomime by 100 excited primary school pupils from Brackenfield School, and as usual, it did not disappoint. Jack and the Beanstalk is a bright and lively production, directed by Marcus Romer, that delivers exactly what everyone expects of panto: big laughs, catchy musical numbers and plenty of audience participation.

Dubious gags, inferred naughtiness and jokes for mum, dad and grandma, the 19th Carriageworks Theatre panto in Leeds is back in all its rumbustious, chaotic glory. But where oh where was Sleeping Beauty’s kiss to wake her from 100 years of slumber after being placed under the spell of wicked witch, Carabosse?

Bonkers and dazzlingly brilliant does not shine a light on describing the impact of Aladdin at Newcastle Theatre Royal. I can’t remember when I laughed so much for so long that my ribs ached. Turning convention on its head, there is just a cursory nod to the rags-to-riches traditional theme in this extravaganza brimming with creative, comedic genius.