TICKETS will go on sale for the first York Theatre Royal pantomime of the post-Berwick Kaler era on March 15, but no other details can be confirmed.

Not the title, nor the director, the writer, Kaler's replacement as dame and the show dates, nor whether regulars David Leonard, Martin Barrass, Suzy Cooper and A J Powell will return.

Not only has Kaler hung up the dame's boots after 40 years but also Damian Cruden, his long-time co-director, is stepping down this summer after 22 years as the Theatre Royal's artistic director .

This much is known: the box office will open at 9am on March 15 for in-person sales, followed by online bookings from 3pm the same day. Phone bookings will start at 9am the next morning.

Executive director Tom Bird said: "We are delighted that the York Theatre Royal pantomime will return this year in all its fun-filled, gag-laden and song-packed glory. The show is the lifeblood of York’s Christmas and attracts visitors from all over the world. It’s the best Christmas present anyone could have. We will throw open our doors on March 15, when early bookers will be welcomed with tea, biscuits and special guests."

Full details of title and cast will be revealed in the run-up to the ticket launch.