Panto is a hugely popular tradition across East Anglia, and today we are looking back at productions over the years.

Ipswich Star: A scene from the Co-op Juniors' pantomime of January 1967 at the Spa Pavilion in Felixstowe. Were you one of the cast?A scene from the Co-op Juniors' pantomime of January 1967 at the Spa Pavilion in Felixstowe. Were you one of the cast? (Image: Archant)

Have you ever taken part in a pantomime? Despite being a British institution, the comedy musical treat was partly inspired by a 16th-century Italian theatrical tradition, the commedia dell'arte.

Ipswich Star: Hollesley's village panto, Cinderella, in February 1985Hollesley's village panto, Cinderella, in February 1985 (Image: Hollesley's village panto, Cinderella, in February 1985)

Snow White, Cinderella and Aladdin are among the most popular pantomime themes, often with topical jokes and references worked in to add to the fun.

Ipswich Star: Bredfield panto, Snow White, from February 2002Bredfield panto, Snow White, from February 2002 (Image: Archant)

This year many pantos have had to be cancelled, while others have gone virtual to ensure the show goes on.

Ipswich Star: A dress rehearsal for the Springfield Follies panto Aladdin and his magic lamp in 2012A dress rehearsal for the Springfield Follies panto Aladdin and his magic lamp in 2012 (Image: Archant)

However, it's hoped drama groups and companies around the area will once again be able to stage their much-loved live shows next winter.

Ipswich Star: Hitcham village panto from February 1988Hitcham village panto from February 1988 (Image: Archant)

What are your panto memories? Email judy.rimmer@archant.co.uk or write to Judy Rimmer, Newsroom, 120 Princes Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 1RS. To order photos, visit our website or or call Diane Townsend on 01603 772449.

Ipswich Star: Coddenham pantomime in January 1976Coddenham pantomime in January 1976 (Image: Archant)

Ipswich Star: Landseer Players' panto Snow White, at Suffolk College in February 2005Landseer Players' panto Snow White, at Suffolk College in February 2005 (Image: Archant)

Ipswich Star: Cast members from the Puss in Boots panto at Mildenhall in January 1999Cast members from the Puss in Boots panto at Mildenhall in January 1999 (Image: Archant)