The Courtyard Christmas Children’s Show returns for a second year with the story of Hansel and Gretel!

This year's show has been written by Nick Lane especially for The Courtyard, and will be directed by David Durant, associate director at The Courtyard.

"Last year was the first time we'd done a Christmas show and it sold out," says David. "So we thought 'this is a good idea'. Young people join the Youth Theatre but, we asked ourselves, what are we doing to attract them from an even younger age? So why don't we do our own show with lots of associated work with schools. Last year, we worked with seven schools and this year it's gone up to 10."

Conceding that Hansel and Gretel has a dark side, David reveals that they have taken a light-hearted approach to the story. "It's very gentle, full of energy and live and recorded music, with two actors, Latoya Lees and Adam Barlow playing all the parts.

"I have tried to create a safe, accessible environment for children so that they will instantly be transported to Hansel and Gretel's garden, which happens to be on the edge of the forest.

The Children’s Christmas show is aimed at a younger audience than the traditional annual pantomime, and features stunning interactive puppetry, perfect for children and families aged 7 and under.

Can Hansel and Gretel fight off the Wicked Witch? Will the Gingerbread Man get lost in the house made of sugar, spice and all things nice?

Hansel and Gretel will be in the Studio Theatre from Thursday, December 10 to Thursday, December 31. For a full list of dates and times, and to book, visit courtyard.org.uk or call the box office on 01432 340555.