An SNP MSP has called for more "autism-friendly" pantomimes to be rolled out across Scotland.

Mark McDonald praised the efforts of producers who are putting on relaxed performances across Scotland in this festive season.

Many autistic children find normal performances too loud or bright to enjoy.

One production which is being adapted to become autism-friendly in this panto season is Dick McWhittington at His Majesty's Theatre in Aberdeen.

McDonald said: "The fact that there are nearly 60,000 people with autism in Scotland highlights why we need more autism-friendly shows to allow all families across Scotland to be able to celebrate the festive season by attending a pantomime.

"Autism-friendly performances include subduing of pyrotechnics, strobe lighting and other loud noises, a more relaxed and informal atmosphere with support on hand for any audience members who may become anxious.

"I would encourage all pantomime producers across Scotland to look at what has been achieved in Aberdeen and other theatres since this campaign began, and think about how they can adapt their pantomimes to allow people with autism to enjoy their show as well."

He added: "Nobody will ever find themselves excluded by a relaxed performance and all it takes are small but important adjustments to make the joy of theatre as inclusive as possible. I hope to see many more organisers follow in Aberdeen's lead."

River City star Jordan Young, who plays Boabby Ba'heid in Dick McWhittington, said: "I'm really delighted to be taking part in this more relaxed and informal autism-friendly performance of Dick McWhittington in Aberdeen, and it's great that Mark McDonald MSP continues to campaign for this.

"I would definitely agree that more theatres should get involved in this great initiative, making pantomime more inclusive and a supportive atmosphere for people with complex needs and their families so that everyone can enjoy and take part in this great Christmas tradition."

Aberdeen

His Majesty's Theatre Relaxed performance of Dick McWhittington on January 6, 1pm.

http://www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/events/dick-mcwhittington-2016-panto

Edinburgh

King's Theatre relaxed pantomime on January 6, 2pm.

http://www.edtheatres.com/relaxedpanto

Dundee

Dundee Rep relaxed performance of George's Marvellous Medicine on December 10, 2.30pm. http://www.dundeerep.co.uk/event/marvellous

Glasgow

Kings Theatre relaxed performance of Snow White on January 8, 2016

http://www.glasgowwestend.co.uk/relaxed-performance-of-snow-white-8-january-2016-kings-theatre/

Inverness

Eden Court relaxed performance of Dick Whittington on January 6, 7pm.

https://www.eden-court.co.uk/whats-on/shows/dick-whittington-panto-relaxed-performance

Kirkcaldy

Adam Smith Theatre relaxed performance of Cinderella on January 6, 11am.

http://www.onfife.com/whats-on/detail/cinderella