A cast of almost 50 are poised to take to the stage for Hyde Little Theatre's annual pantomime Rapunzel.

Rehearsals have been under way for a number of months at the group’s Hyde Studio 9 base.

As the group looks to widen its appeal and awareness of what it does in a wider capacity across Tameside, the panto production itself will be staged at St Ann’s Social Centre in Ashton.

The show promises fun for all the family, with plenty of song and dance routines and audience participation positively encouraged.

The show goes on from Tuesday, February 7 to Saturday, February 11. Evening shows start at 7.15pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.15pm, which will be a relaxed performance. The show will feature children from HLT’s youth groups.

HLT itself has widened its community remit locally, presently acting as a Warm Hub as well as providing a food pantry for those most in need.

Members of the group were raising awareness of the show on Saturday at Asda in Ashton, plus raising money to fund their community projects, with a huge thank you to all who donated, with £120 collected.

The panto includes a talented cast, including Michael Lawlor as Dame Netty, all expertly directed by Gavin Chadwick.

Familiar faces include our very own poetry columnist Shelley Ridler and editor Nigel Skinner.

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