DESPITE a hectic schedule of rehearsals with Sale Nomads, Alice Gregr, 28, a Radio Manchester journalist, who plays Aladdin in their panto, won’t let anything rub her up the wrong way.

The only rubbing is done by herself when, in one of her favourite scenes, she magics the genie from the lamp.

She said: “I get to do a little dancing with him. Even though Martin Wiggan, who plays him, is more of a singer, he flings me around.”

As a dancer, Alice says: “I try to make movement an important part of the role.”

She especially enjoys singing Whole New World which has been mixed with a popular Disney song.

She is apprehensive about the flying carpet scene. “We haven’t tried it yet but we have such a good technical team, it could easily become my favourite scene.”

Last year she played Dick in the Nomads award winning production of Dick Whittington.

“Aladdin is much more interesting,” she said. “He’s got more about him. He is lazy but also cheeky.”

Alice’s principal girl will be Jess Dyer as Princess Balroubador. “She’s only 18. It is nice to work with her in one of her first major parts.”

They sing two duets, A Whole New World and Love is an Open Door.

Alice thinks the audience will like the set and the dancing. Wishy Washy and the Dame will make them laugh.

She said: “The children will be involved. They’ll come on the stage and get a lollipop.”

*Aladdin is at the Waterside Arts Centre in Sale from January 9 – 11 and January 14 – 18. For tickets ring 0161 969 5140 or 0161 912 5616.