There cannot be a more perfect example of an enduring pantomime dame than the amazing Danny La Rue OBE. With a back catalogue of vast experience, Danny will be once again be on stage as the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella.

Danny is without doubt one of the most respected, prolific and popular performers in international showbiz history.

At 77, although somewhat restricted with a sight problem, he enthuses about his forthcoming work and adds his professionalism and undiminished talent to a young cast.

What the legend La Rue doesn't know about theatre and especially about pantomime, is not worth knowing.

He prefers to be known as a comic in a frock, not as a drag artist, although it was Danny who made drag respectable.

Danny was the first female impersonator to appear before the Queen in a Royal Variety show.

He has achieved international super stardom with appearances in Canada and sell-out tours of Australia and New Zealand.

From his extravagant costumes to his success, the word glittering can truly be applied.

Cinderella opens at the Ashcroft Theatre, Fairfield Halls, Croydon, on December 9, and Danny is looking forward to immersing himself in the role.

He knows his fans come to see him but acknowledges pantomime is "magical".

Danny also has strong views on how it should remain so.

He said: "It demands high energy and pace. The nucleus of a good panto is never being risque or using bad language.

"I like to think children live in a world which protects them. Call me old fashioned but I think it's a rather sad world we live in now."

Danny also knows how "to fill a stage".

He said: "If you work in television and then try theatre in something such as pantomime, you must be aware of the difference.

"I make sure I send someone up to the back of the upper circle while I rehearse and they let me know I can be seen and heard."

He added: "It's no good just playing to the stalls. Everyone has paid for a ticket to see you. Never forget it.

"The worst thing which can happen is when the cast have in jokes'.

"The audience must be part of everything and have no exclusions.

"You can't have the cast laughing among themselves."

Danny said: "I like to think the audience become my family while I'm on stage."

And it should be family entertainment of the highest calibre at the Ashcroft Theatre.

Other Cinderella cast members include television presenter and magician Stephen Mulhern as Buttons and EastEnders Des Coleman and Carly Hillman as Dandini and Cinderella.

The outrageous Ugly Sisters will be played by Simon Bashford and Mark Two and the prince is 19-year-old singing sensation Sean Smith.

Ticket prices start at £11.50 and are available by calling the Fairfield Halls box office on 020 8688 9291.