East Midlands Trains has teamed up with Sheffield Theatres to sponsor this year's Lyceum Theatre pantomime.

Dick Whittington, the story of the boy who set off for London to seek his fortune in the big city, opens in the Lyceum Theatre on Friday, 5th December, 2014 and runs until Sunday, 4th January, 2015.

East Midlands Trains, who run regular services to London St Pancras from Sheffield Train Station, will sponsor this year's pantomime in a partnership that will include a specially created costume for the pantomime Dame, played by Damian Williams.

Speaking about the partnership, Sheffield Theatres' Chief Executive, Dan Bates, said: "We're very excited to be teaming up with East Midlands Trains for this year's production of Dick Whittington. The story, which sees Dick journey to London to find his fortune, is a perfect match, but more importantly, this sponsorship allows us to work together to showcase the ease of travelling from London to Sheffield and the cultural offer available to local, national and international audiences".

Jayne Moyses, Head of Sales and Customer Service Centre for East Midlands Trains, said: "We're really excited to have the sponsorship of this year's panto as a key part of our partnership with Sheffield Theatres. Everybody knows the story of how Dick Whittington went to London to seek his fortune and as the train operator providing fast and frequent services between Sheffield and London, it provides a great opportunity for us to raise awareness of the train service we offer.

"We look forward to working with Sheffield Theatres over the next twelve months, particularly on this year's panto which will be one of the highlights!"

Directed by Paul Hendy, Dick Whittington follows on from last year's smash-hit production of Jack and The Beanstalk.