AFTER disputes over rent costs, the Albert Halls in Bolton is welcoming back its first local drama group.

Farnworth Performing Arts is heading back to its home in the town centre after four years away from the stage.

The company, which has an 87-year history, has been unable to host its grand musical productions since the halls closed for refurbishment in 2014.

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However, the company has now agreed rental costs for a 2018 musical production Annie.

Production co-ordinator for Farnworth Performing Arts Co Ltd, Sandra Blyth said: "For four years we have been unable to use the Albert Halls during renovation, and it is very exciting to be planning a 2018 production.

"We are grateful for the assistance and co-operation of the Albert Halls staff who are working with us to help make a success of the production.

"Of course the costs have escalated since 2014 when we presented Carousel, but we are hoping the people of Bolton will support us in this venture to bring musical theatre back to the Albert Halls.

"It's nice to have some good news."

The company was formed in 1930 as the Farnworth Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society.

Its first show was Miss Hook of Holland at the Ritz Theatre in Farnworth and it has produced a musical every year, with the exception of the war years.

The team moved to the moved to the Albert Halls in 1986 with The King and I.

Next year's show is described as "a lavish musical production with professional staging and costumes" but in order to bring it to the stage the company has another hurdle to overcome.

Mrs Blyth explained: "Our membership has fallen considerably in the last four years as we have not been in rehearsal to present a musical but we are hopeful that previous members, and new members, will come back and enjoy the experience of once again performing in, what must be, the very best venue in the Bolton area.

"We are really excited about going back to the town centre but we are also apprehensive. Our mian problem now is making sure we have enough people to cast it.

"Four years is a long break and a lot of societies who have breaks like that don't come back. We have been fortunate to be able to keep it going with other activities.

"We need to raise more money. It can cost between £22,000 and £24,000 to put on a show – that includes rehearsal space, a full orchestra and costume hire.

"Hopefully we can balance the books and pay for it all."

The company had originally been wary of booking at the Albert Halls after a cost increase following the refurbishment.

Bolton Symphony Orchestra has cancelled provisional bookings at the venue after fearing it could be charged in the region of £1,500 for rehearsal time and a one day concert.

Bolton Council said the cost per performance at the halls had increased from £600 to £750 and the pricing has failed to put off the Farnworth company.

Annie, which will run from April 18 to 21, will include an award-winning production team and 12-piece orchestra.

Farnworth is holding a Welcome Night for people interested in joining the production on October 9 from 7.30pm at Bolton Cricket Club in Green Lane, and a Children’s Workshop will be held at club from 7.30pm on October 16 for those aged eight and older.