The stars of Brighton's alternative panto, jostling backstage among feathers, fur and fabulous make-up must be a sight to behold.

"Ten drag queens and three mirrors - you can imagine the drama, can't you? I was thinking of importing some from the London Palladium, so they can have a mirror each," laughs producer Brian Ralfe, who also plays Friar Tuck.

Now in its fifth year, the panto is becoming something of an institution. It first ran for two nights but there are now 12 shows over six days.

The stars are mainly well-known drag acts from the local scene. There's David Raven, aka Maisie Trollette, who plays Camp Robin Hood, Miss Jason, who plays the Very Old Babe, Kitty Litter as the Fairy and Lee Tracey, who also wrote the play, as Nurse Hardwick.

David Roumelle, Cosmic and Jason Prince also star in the wickedly-naughty show, which promises more innuendos than Julian Clary on an outsize fruit and veg stall.

The show follows the same lines as a traditional panto - it's just cruder and camper.

"We've still got the evil sheriff and the good fairy but we've changed the wording slightly. We have to protect the children, so it's strictly for adults only," says Brian.

But, you may be pleased to know, they do have limits.

"There are only so many times you can use a bad word. You can't use the F-word too much. We are fully aware we have to be careful. We are all professional people," he adds wryly.

More than just a Brighton favourite, the panto pulls in large crowds from out of town, with a number of well-known Londoners among its biggest fans.

"The cast of EastEnders come down by coach every year. They love it. Nana Moon saw it twice last year. The celebrity list lengthens every year," Brian says.

Audiences will miss a favourite cast member this year. Brighton legend Phil Starr, who died suddenly in the autumn, was always a big draw.

In fact, it was Phil who first came up with the idea to stage the show in Brighton.

"It's his panto," says Ralfe. "He was my nearest and dearest friend and I miss him terribly but I'm sure he'll be with us through all the dramas. He was always wonderful in those situations."

But Brian has ensured Phil will still be part of this year's glittering proceedings.

"We have a wonderful treat in store for everybody, although I want to retain the element of surprise," he says.

The success of the panto is a fine tribute. Brian has been approached by theatres in Bournemouth and Blackpool, keen to have a slice of the saucy fun.

"We are in negotiations but the show will always start and end in Brighton," he says.

Shows at 5pm and 8pm (not at 5pm Mon). Tickets £15. Call 01273 709709.