Ahoy there! This Christmas, join in the fun and adventure in MADC’s pantomime Treasure Island with Alan Montanaro as the inimitable Long John Swagger (Jean Pierre Busuttil) as the outrageous Mama Sufia Kerapestska, and her son, Alexander G. Lewis as the young hero Jim Hawkins in a magical, exciting adventure.

The tale goes that young Jim Hawkins comes across a strange map that leads him off on an epic hunt for treasure along with his unwilling mother. Apart from the untold riches to be found, the fabled treasure also contains a magic voodoo amulet. If they can find it in time, they might just be able to save the squire’s beautiful daughter from her terrible curse before it’s too late.

Of course, the journey is a bumpy one as the sinister stranger Long John Swagger and his rather unscrupulous friends have also come along for the ride.

Writer and director Malcolm Galea has mustered a swashbuckling cast including Katherine Brown, Joseph Zammit, Steffi Thake, Michael Mangion, Tina Rizzo and Joe Depasquale along with many others.

Be prepared for generous doses of humour for young and old, music by Maestro Paul Abela, dance choreographed by Alison White, stunning sets by Claudio Apap, costumes by Isabel Warrington, special effects and an odd surprise or two.

Treasure Island promises to be yet another memorable MADC panto and a magical adventure of riotous entertainment. It’s the perfect festive treat for all the family. As usual audience participation is encouraged – children and adults risk walking the plank if they don’t join in the fun. There’s treasure to be had if you make it on board the stage.

Treasure Island runs from December 19 to January 3 at MFCC, Ta’ Qali. Book on www.madc.com.mt, bookings@madc.com or by calling on 7777 6232.