EASTENDERS Dirty Dan takes to the North-East stage tonight as panto season arrives on Wearside.

Actor Craig Fairbrass plays the Duke of Northumberland in Sunderland's Empire Theatre production of Sleeping Beauty.

Former Page 3 girl Tracey Coleman adds the glamour to the show by starring in the title role.

Kids will be shouting "she's behind you" at Kate Copstick, who plays evil witch Carbosse. Also appearing are Stephen Picton, as King Richard, Therese O'Malley, as Queen Judy, and Peter Thorne, as Dame Dot Com. Radio DJ Paul "Goffy" Gough will provide jokes as Lester the Jester.

Dancers are local schoolchildren chosen from dozens of hopefuls at auditions earlier this year.

Sleeping Beauty runs until January 7. For tickets, priced £7 to £14, call the box office on 0191-514 2517