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With 16 professional pantomimes under his belt, CBeebies star Chris Jarvis (Show Me, Show Me) is no stranger to a bit of booing and hissing. As he steps into the royal robes of Emperor Sho Mee, he talks about why he loves panto so much and what's he's doing for Christmas 2010.

What can CBeebies' viewers expect from this year's panto?

This year's CBeebies pantomime is a great chance to see everyone on CBeebies altogether in one Christmas spectacular. Like all pantos it's light-hearted and fun but we do tell the traditional panto version of the Aladdin story with good guys and a baddy; so there are plenty of opportunities to boo, hiss, laugh and cheer.

This is the best yet with a fantastic set, script and performances. It's a good introduction to the bizarre world of pantomime and I also hope it encourages people to go to the theatre.

Tell us about your character.

I play the Emperor Sho Mee alongside Pui who is the Empress Sho Mee. We are an eccentric couple who govern CBeebies Old Town and live in a fabulous palace. We are rather overprotective of our daughter Princess Jasmine and alarmed at her choice of fiancé – Aladdin.

As well as being a tad forgetful, my character does have a softer side and eventually gives in when Aladdin proves himself. And I wear a very ornate, long, red, black and silver kimono with an incredibly grand head piece. Thankfully it is comfortable and not too hot!

What do you like about pantomime?

I've been in pantomimes and Christmas shows since I was very young and now I cannot imagine Christmas without performing in one!

I enjoy being part of a talented team of people; not just the actors and dancers, but the musicians, stage crew, wardrobe department, lighting designers... It's an amazing time for me as I'm interested in all of it!

What is your first pantomime memory?

I remember being taken to the Queen's Theatre in Hornchurch to see Aladdin. I was probably only about five but I remember The Genie appearing in a flash of light and smoke. I remember the incredibly funny and colourful dame and all the songs, dances and comedy; I was in heaven!

How do you describe the magic of panto?

Pantomime is something everyone can enjoy, from 2 to 102. It's one of those things the whole family can go to and laugh at together – an excuse for everyone to be daft and forget their troubles.

Most pantomime routines and jokes are older than all of us and it is difficult to explain why we find so much of it amusing. Meddle with it at your peril!

Suffice to say it's an oasis of colour, magic and comedy at winter time when the days are short and cold... so book now, all seats available!

What are you doing for Christmas this year?

I shall be appearing as Buttons in Cinderella at the Pavilion Theatre in Bournemouth with Amanda Barrie, Tim Dixon and Tom Owen.

This will be my 16th big professional panto. I love it and it makes my Christmas sparkle. My family will be staying with me and putting up with my busy schedule once again.

I always consult them before agreeing to do the show but they always say "do it!" – maybe it has become part of their Christmas too!

Finally, what is your Christmas wish?

That everyone has a very happy Christmas. I stress "happy" – it's been a difficult and worrying year for a lot of families.