When the founder, Arthur Bowley, began the Westenders Amateur Dramatic Group 77 years ago for the people of Llanfaes, did he imagine he had started an annual event that would embed itself so deeply in the community of Brecon and the surrounding area?

Oh yes he did! Oh no he didn't! Whatever he thought, every January since 1948, the Westenders have produced an annual pantomime in Brecon. Firstly in the Guildhall, and since 1998, at Theatr Brycheiniog.

This year, the pantomime is Robin Hood. Robin and his Merry Men, aided by talking trees, an irascible Dame and the dashing Maid Marian, stand against the growling villain, Sheriff of Nottingham and his dimwitted minions, Guy of Gisborne, Prince John and bumbling Norman.

More than 80 local people provide the chorus, dancers, and choir this year, while 30 others work backstage and front of house.

New member, Becky Drysdale, said: “It's bonkers! All these different people of different ages all working together towards the same goal. I have been welcomed - it's such fun and parts of the panto have had me howling!”

Writer and director, Julie Jones, is feeling excited.

“We've got the biggest number of people on stage this year,” she explained.

“We wanted to use the talent we have in Westenders. We have a wonderful young choreographer, Emily Chambers, who has brought out the best in all our performers.

“Our cast of 23 is a mixture of veteran and new actors; and our backstage crew have created fantastic costumes and props.

“It's always a challenge to be as good as our last panto. This year we've certainly done it.”

Catchy tunes and beautiful arrangements of voices have always been a lynchpin of panto.

Musical directors Roger Smith and Angharad Allen have surpassed themselves this year.

“I started in panto chorus in 2003,” said Roger, “Now, I am organising music. We've taken contemporary songs and put our own spin on them. We know we have great voices and want to give everyone the opportunity to excel.”

A community show made from and for their local community, the Westenders look forward to entertaining everyone.

The first show of Robin Hood is on Friday, January 24, at Theatr Brycheiniog.

Tickets are selling fast. If you want fun, pure daftness and a highly entertaining evening come along to this colourful, family show.

Robin Hood runs from January 24 until February 1, with matinees on Saturday, January 25, Sunday, January 26 and Saturday February 1.

Tickets can be bought at Theatr Brycheiniog's box office (01874 611622) or on their website.