Following a stint in Glasgow, Andy Gray’s reunion with the King’s resident pantomime dame Allan Stewart and recurring baddie Grant Stott is one of the most anticipated events of the capital’s Christmas season. And when he appears on stage as King Crumble, riding on a motorised toilet, he effortlessly falls back into place to restore this well-loved festive trio.

Jack and the Beanstalk is as colourful and exuberant as audiences have come to expect from the Kings’ annual Christmas outing. Captivating sets and aerial stunts set jaws dropping, while lively performances of pop chart hits get children dancing in their seats. There’s one too many jokes about The X Factor and Glee, but the improvised patter between Gray, Stott and the fantastic Stewart produces some of the funniest moments. Together with charming performances from the supporting cast, it culminates in a witty show that oozes Christmas cheer: the perfect antidote to the bitter winter.

King’s Theatre, Edinburgh, until Sun 23 Jan