Curtain raised for panto performance

The Eden Court Theatre will be open for business

A pantomime which had to be cancelled due to building damage has been given the green light to continue.

Work carried out by construction staff on Inverness's Eden Court Theatre has ensured the pantomime "Aladdin" will be back on the boards on Saturday - three days after it was cancelled.

It had been expected that the theatre would not be able to reopen until Christmas Eve, and leave about 4,000 ticket holders disappointed.

But management said contractors and council officials have managed to work a small miracle for thousands of youngsters.

The closure left thousands disappointed

It was estimated the closure would have cost the venue about £35,000.

The damage detected in brickwork on the Eden Court frontage on Wednesday caused an immediate closure and looked like bringing Aladdin's run to a halt.

But after round-the-clock work by builders, the curtain will rise again on Saturday.

Health and safety officials, with owners Highland Council, have now given the go-ahead.

Theatre Director Colin Marr said anyone who had bought tickets for Saturday's show should now turn up as normal.

Two extra shows have also been scheduled for Sunday in a bid to accommodate some of those who missed out during the closure.

Box office staff said they are still trying to contact ticket holders to reveal the good news.

The show stars Mark McDonnell, Derek Munn and Cameron Jack.