AS the cast of the Lyceum Theatre's Christmas panto Cinderella enjoy their last laughs tonight, the star of the show, Johnny Mac, is thrilled to be a crowd favourite. As Cinders' best friend and general dogsbody Buttons, Johnny has been a huge hit with panto audiences at the Crewe venue and, after his last star turn as Wishie Washee in Aladdin in 2005, he is becoming an annual attraction at the theatre. Johnny, 27, says: 'It was an honour to be asked back again. I had a great time in Aladdin and Cinderella has been even more fun. 'I love it here. The people of Crewe have been amazing and really welcoming and supportive throughout. 'If they asked me back next Christmas I would love to come. Hopefully we can get a petition going to get Johnny Mac back! 'I would also like to say a big thank you to everyone at the Three Lamps pub for all their hospitality and support over the last month. Last year I stayed in Hough and although the accommodation was great, staying in the town, close to the theatre, really helps you feel a part of the town and the community. 'There is something very special about the Lyceum Theatre. It is a beautiful building and the audience are so close to you that they are as much a part of the show as you are.' Johnny has been a professional stand-up comedian for eight years. He started working as an entertainer for holiday company Air Tours, and has since taken his family act on tour around the UK holiday camps, theatres and even on cruise liners. The popular entertainer from Glasgow says: 'Cinderella has been an absolutely fantastic show and I have enjoyed every minute of it.' Johnny stars alongside former Emmerdale actress Leah Bracknell as Prince Charming, Jemma Keys, better known as Stacey from Hollyoaks, as Cinders and double act The Lavelles as the infamous Ugly Sisters. 'All the cast have been amazing. It is so important that everyone gets on with each other or the panto just wouldn't work. There are absolutely no egos in the dressing rooms and that makes it so much easier to have fun on and off stage. Adds Johnny: 'I know it's a cliché but Buttons is honestly a part I have always wanted to play. I've been a panto geek ever since my parents used to take me to the Glasgow Pavilion every year. I just love it. 'Cinderella is such a brilliant story and there is a huge scope for comedy.' This month Johnny hopes to take a break from the stage for a few weeks before getting back on tour. 'January is usually a quiet month but it is nice to have a moment to reflect on last year. Hopefully, I will find a moment to come up with a belated New Year's resolution because I haven't thought of one yet.' * Tickets for this afternoon and tonight's final performances are still on offer. Shows start at 2.30 and 7.30pm. Phone the box office on 01270 537 333 or log on to www.lyceumtheatre.net. | 
