THERE is a giant event happening in Adlington into the New Year.

One of the biggest young casts in the North West will be taking to the stage for Jack and the Beanstalk.

The St Paul’s Players production will star 42 youngsters alongside senior cast to tell the popular tale with song, dance and slapstick.

Director Graham Cohen said: “I have a truly amazing cast. The line-up offers a wide range of experience and the comedy roles are in more than capable hands.

“We always have a large group of dancers and ensemble in our pantomimes because we love to give the young people of Adlington and the surrounding districts a chance to be part of our productions and give them the opportunity to display their amazing talents.”

St Paul’s Players has been established for more than 100 years, and originally performed the annual pantomime and plays in the school hall of St Paul’s CE School.

In 1973, the group moved to the Adlington Community Centre, which for every production is converted into a theatre with raised seating.

The centre will play host once again and the big show will also be helping theatre-goers herald in 2017 with a New Year’s Eve show.

Producer Jane Harrison said: “We never turn a child away from joining the group. It’s not about talent, it’s about fun and games.

“They are absolutely loving it, it’s a great chance to make friends and hang out with people they usually wouldn’t get a chance to speak to at school. It’s like a big happy youth club. They are always so sad when the show ends.

“We believe this is the most children in a pantomime in the North West of England.

“The wardrobe has been working really hard behind the scenes for the 42 children and all the principals. You can imagine the amount of costumes coming out!”

The show is choreographed by Lorraine Robinson.

The show runs on December 31 and January 5 to 7, with matinees on January 2 and 7, 2.15pm. To book tickets call 07403 287120 or 01204 407784.