In fact, he was more than 'Happy' to pose with the lovely ladies as they lined up for a final audition to find Leeds's own Snow White.

It was all part of the search for the city's own fairytale princess for a pantomime version of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves at the Carriageworks theatre this Christmas.

Nickname

Carole Carpenter, from Harrogate, 30, who came to the final audition dressed as Snow White, said: "It's always been a part I really wanted to play because it was my nickname at school because of my hair – but I didn't always dress like this!"

Andrew Linford, associate producer, said he and his team were "delighted" to be doing the show in Leeds following the success of Aladdin last year.

"Everyone knows Snow White," he said. "People come knowing the story and it's our job to tell it in the most colourful, comedic and music-filled way we can."

Speaking of the shortlist, he added: "It's quite tough and we are going to be honest and a little bit ruthless to whittle them down, but everyone is very excited about it.

"It's a strong title, we are going to have a local lass playing the lead, and it's going to be a great show."

Their choice will be announced next week.

Tickets are on sale now from the box office on 0113 224 3801 or at www.carriageworkstheatre.org.

Performances are from December 4 to January 9.