Imagine a lamp that can grant you wishes... you could wipe away Brexit and Trump.

But we are not talking politics – it’s panto time and a chance to escape.

Aladdin may have wanted riches beyond his wildest dreams but at the end of the day it’s what is inside his heart that counts.

That’s the inspiring effect about pantos - they bring out the child in us all.

This Aladdin, by UK Productions, is not packed with special effects - a flying carpet sequence is charming rather than state-of-the-art.

On the opening night there were a few scenes that may need some re-tweaking. A clever visual sketch involving gymnastics is a wee bit over stretched.

And a Laurel and Hardy styled- routine involving a mis-operating laundry has great potential in the slapstick stakes. These will no doubt get stronger as the run continues.

Director Andrew Agnew of Balamory fame is also in the equally demanding role of Wishee Washee. He is our lynchpin (with a smashing giggle) throughout the show as his brother Aladdin (Bradley Judge) woos the Princess Jasmine played with a lovely sparkle by Kelsie-Rae Marshall.

Widow Twankey - manages to break the ridiculous - costume-o-meter. Michael Chance works his striped socks off.

And there’s great teamwork from musical director Peter Golding and choreographer Lee Lomas.

Full marks to the Hoylake School of Dance.

The star of the show is Bill Ward’s joyfully over-the-top Abanazar.

He reminded me of Dick Dastardly from TV’s Wacky Races cartoon - lots of evil intent but you can’t help but like his deluded megalomania.

When he declared ‘‘I am going to dominate the world one junior audience heckler declared ‘Oh, you’re not.’’

Our villain - taken aback - loved it and responded wonderfully.

Bill, a popular star of Coronation Street and Emmerdale, clearly relishes the role and he plays it with the right amount of silly swagger and gusto.

The songs include contemporary hits such as All I Am - the Jess Glynne favourite - and the mainstream opening number The Greatest Show.

The topical gags are paced well for adults and the Ghostbusters ‘he’s-behind-you’ sequence was a shout-out-loud delight for the children.

The song sheet always brings the ‘ahh factor’ out in force as kids enjoyed their treasured few minutes of festive fame.

So here it is... another winning panto from the Floral in its 10th anniversary year. Oh, yes, it is.

Globe verdict?

Four Stars - traditional magician-al!

On until January 6, 2019 at the Floral Pavilion. For tickets call the box office on 0151 666 0000.