IT'S panto time at Kidderminster's Rose Theatre with the curtain going up for Sleeping Beauty: A Magical Tale.

The show promises to be another sell-out for theatrical charity Limelight with its fifth annual family fun production and its own unique brand of humour.

Penned and choreographed by Jane Bennett, it will open for the first time before New Year, with two performances on Monday and a New Year’s Eve matinee.

The title role is played by amateur operatic stalwart, Limelight newcomer Sarah Richards, with the group’s leading man, the ever-popular Sam Wall, as Prince Rupert.

The role of the dame, Nanny Diddums, is once again taken by funny man Scott Denton and regular stooges Michael Neri and Andy Bunn are back again, this time as Horel and Lardy.

The evil Carabosse is performed by Holly Gittins, a part made for her following her success as the wicked enchantress, Devillina, in Beauty and the Beast.

Fairy Sapphire, whose powers can only dilute Carabosse’s wicked death spell to a sleep to be broken by the princess’s true love, is played by talented teenager Zailee Parmenter.

Another popular Limelight regular, Paul Standing, returns as the prince’s manservant, Cosmo, and dancers from Splinters make up the chorus.

There are daily matinees at 2.15pm with evening performances at 7.15pm from Monday until Saturday, January 4, with no performances on New Year's Eve night or New Year's Day.

For more information visit rosetheatre.co.uk