IN this fast-moving world you can get an instant coffee, an instant tan and now an instant pantomime!

The Instant Panto Co. brings together the cream of performers from Southampton, Salisbury and the New Forest's local amateur scene once a year to put on an original pantomime with a rehearsal period of just two months.

Now in its fourth year, the group has raised approximately £3,000 for local charities since it started. This year, the panto has an Eastern flavour with the tale of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves brought to life. The show is written and directed by Steven Moulster, from Hythe, who works as a broadcast technician for the BBC in London.

Steven, an accomplished musician, began writing pantomimes when the amateur group he was with in Watford couldn't afford to pay the copyright for published scripts.

He says: "I've written about nine pantos to date. Ali Baba is a brand new work. This is the first time I've directed a show I've written, which is an interesting challenge."

The panto features an array of colourful characters, which include the Big Green Bogey of Baghdad, Billy Ad-Dab and Hermione Gold-digger. The cast are accompanied by a rock-and-roll style band who will be belting out 60s and 70s classics such as Shake, Rattle and Roll and You're the OneThat I Want.

Two local charities that will benefit from the profits of this world premiere are, The Rose Road Association, and The Brendan Hosey Trust. A donation will also be made to Totton Cub Scouts.

Steven Moulster added: "We have already raised £700 for these charities by organising a murder-mystery evening so we hope that along with the panto profits, we can beat our other years of raising about £1,000."

The Empire Hall, Totton, Friday, February 25 and Saturday, February 26 at 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee. Box office: 023 8084 7364 or from the Rose Road Association Shop in Water Lane, Totton or on the door.