The Gunners’ all-singing, all-dancing riches-to-rags tale has proved so popular with panto fans that it has been extended beyond the festive season.
Back in the summer, Arsenal lamp-rubber Mikel Arteta was granted his three wishes, casting Princess Jasmine Rice as his main love-interest and giving comic relief roles to Havertz (Wishy) and Raya (Washy) – all with the blessing of Widow Kroenke.
Audiences then enjoyed a Christmas run packed with crowd-pleasing moments:
“That’s not a handball!” – “Oh yes it is!” – “Well it’s not clear and obvious!” – “Oh yes it is!”
“We don’t need a striker.” – “Oh yes you do.”
And who could forget the all-time classic: “We’re top of the league!” – “Oh, no you’re not!”
The panto’s recent extension has necessitated some recasting. Regular villain JaVAR wasn’t available for the FA Cup tie, but Jakub Kiwior stood in as mischief-maker, cunningly switching sides to head the ball into his own net.
Meanwhile, Havertz and Saka delivered finishing acts that had audiences rolling in the aisles.