Bosses at an East Renfrewshire theatre hope the magic of pantomime can help to lift spirits during the Covid pandemic.

The festive fun had to be scrapped last year as the virus led to strict lockdown rules.

However, panto will return to Eastwood Park Theatre next month, with organisers promising to stage the Giffnock venue’s “biggest ever” Christmas spectacular.

Spillers Pantomimes will present Peter Pan from Friday, November 26, until Thursday, December 30, with the main cast now confirmed.

Nicholas Devlin, a Glasgow Academy Musical Theatre of Arts graduate, takes on the lead role as Peter.

He is returning to his roots after touring the world while working on luxury cruise ships.

Nicholas told the Barrhead News: “I’m thrilled to be making my debut with Spillers Pantomimes as the boy who never grew up.

“I can’t wait to be back on stage to spread some Christmas magic and cheer.”

Nicholas will be joined by 28-year entertainment industry veteran Chris De Rosa as panto villain Captain Hook.

Chris is best known as an accomplished magician and illusionist but has also performed all over the globe in shows aboard cruise ships, at casinos and theme parks and on TV.

Dancer, actor, magician and illusionist Louise Andrée Douglas will take on the roles of Tiger Lilly and Mrs Darling, as well as choreographing the show.

Garry King, who triumphed in Pride Glasgow’s Tik Tok Drag Race competition earlier this year, will play Smee, with musical theatre graduate Abbie Purvis playing Tinkerbell.

Auditions for the roles of Wendy, John and Michael have been taking place, with talented locals invited to step forward, but these cast members have yet to be confirmed.

Anthony McReavy, of East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure, said: “While other venues may be scaling back on production this year, we have more than doubled our offering.

“Everyone missed out on the panto magic in person last year.

“Our talented cast have many tricks up their sleeves that are sure to delight the audience and we are excited to bring an extra special show to the stage to make it our best year ever.”

Tickets cost from £13 for adults, £11 for concessions and £9 for children, with a family ticket for two adults and two children priced from £40.

To book, visit eastwoodparktheatre.co.uk/peter-pan.html or call 0141 577 4956.