A traditional English folk tale forms the basis for the next pantomime from the Victoria Hall ADS.

Babes In The Wood, which opens on January 6, has been written by Barry Massey, a member of the society.

Barry said: "Doing it this way means that we can devise a show that fits well, because you know who youre writing for." Producer and director Ray Darby added: "When the cast is familiar with the writer it means the rehearsal process can be smoother."

The fun-packed show is in contrast to the harrowing original story. Babes in the Wood is based on an English ballad from 1595, called The Children in the Wood or The Norfolk Gentlemans Last Will and Testament. It tells the story of two children left in the care of their uncle, who decides to kill them for their inherited fortune.

Although the original story does not have a happy ending, the pantomime version certainly does.

Call 01204 845493 or 0161 703 7570 for tickets.