THE leading ladies in Cradley Heath Amateur Operatic Society's Christmas production will have no trouble getting into character as sisters - because they are siblings themselves.

Liz Compton and Salli Gage will be performing opposite each other for the first time in CHAOS' White Christmas extravaganza as the Haynes sisters, Betty and Judy.

The starring roles were originally set to be filled by Liz and choreographer Emma Newton - but pregnancy has forced Emma to step aside.

The pair will sing the iconic 'Sisters' number in the show which will be held at Stourbridge Town Hall from November 13-17.

Salli is also a choreographer and co-produced CHAOS' 2015 production of Miracle on 34th Street as well as the group's highly-popular Strictly CHAOS concert shows.

This is not the first time she has stepped into a leading role at relatively short notice - when Liz was hurt in a moped accident in 2007, Salli replaced her in CHAOS' Summer Holiday production.

Salli was nominated by Birmingham and District Theatre Guild for her portrayal of the Dolly Parton role in last year's 9 to 5 - The Musical, CHAOS' first venture at Stourbridge Town Hall.

Not only that, she also choreographed the production and helped secure the Theatre Guild's Best Chorus Award and National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) nomination for Best Production.

Liz, meanwhile, has been the group's leading lady on many occasions in shows such as Meet Me in St. Louis, Me and My Girl and Mack and Mabel.

And it will be a real family affair for her this year - as well as playing opposite her sister, Liz's leading man is her real-life husband Adam Compton, who is playing the Bing Crosby part of Bob Wallace.

Tickets are selling fast for the show. Call the box office on 0121 585 7380.