SOON will be the season to be jolly and how better to prepare than with a winter warmer of a Christmas show.

The Spadesbourne Suite will be hosting A Christmas Tale, a delightful and uplifting seasonal musical penned by talented local playwright Paul Vollans.

The new full-length musical stars almost 50 townsfolk, including dynamic dancers from the Bromsgrove School of Dance and harmonious voices from Astwood Bank Operatic Society.

Set in early Victorian times, the show is concerned with the plight of a group of homeless children on the street in the week before Christmas.

Church minister Mr Inchbold would like to see the House Of God used as a refuge for the children from the bitterly cold weather, however the pompous Mr Copperdyke has other plans.

However, the ghost of an old toy-maker, an urchin named Peter, and Mr Copperdyke's children Emily and Robert influence the outcome of the struggle.

Writer Vollans said: "The show is entirely sung with many lively new songs and tunes. It has a mix of drama and comedy and is a festive show to delight the whole family, making a refreshing change from the usual pantomime."

The show is very much a community project with the sets being built by Hartle Lane Sawmill, in Belbroughton, and Bromsgrove Hire helping erect lighting.

Rehearsals for A Christmas Tale started in September and were held at the Rowney Green Peace Hall, near Alvechurch. Cast members, under the name of the All and Sundry, have had the advantage of working with professional theatre director Neale McGrath, who has worked successfully with Paul before.

The Burcot Lane show will run from Thursday, November 20, until Saturday, November 22, starting at 7.30pm. There will also be a matinee show on the Saturday afternoon.

Tickets are £7 for adults and £5 for children. A family ticket is also available admitting two adults and two children for £20. They are available on 0121 445 4065 or 0121 449 4504.