A TALENTED cast of all ages is ready to bring a classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical to the stage.

Carousel will be performed by Farnworth Performing Arts at the Albert Halls, Bolton, from Wednesday, April 9 to Saturday, April 12.

First staged on Broadway in 1945, it tells the story of carousel barker Billy Bigelow, whose romance with mill worker Julie Jordan comes at the price of both their jobs.

He attempts a robbery to provide for Julie and their unborn child; after it goes wrong, he is given a chance to make things right.

Youngsters from Bolton and the surrounding areas, aged seven to 14, have joined the cast for the show which includes Natalie Crompton as Carrie Pipperidge, Katy Clayton as Julie Jordon and Sharron Knott as Nettie Fowler.

Sandra Blyth, production co-ordinator, said: “The youngsters are encouraged to look to future productions, as the leading role of Billy Bigalow is being played by Sam Cain who performed as a member of Fagin’s Gang in one of Farnworth’s most successful productions, Oliver, in 2009.

“All the youngsters in the show have formed a friendly bond and are excited and looking forward to the production of Carousel.”

The musical has been revived all over the world on numerous occasions, including Nicholas Hytner’s 1992 National Theatre production and the show was also turned into an MGM film in 1956, starring Gordon McRae and Shirley Jones.

It features songs If I Loved You, June Is Bustin' Out All Over and You'll Never Walk Alone — adopted by Liverpool FC as their official song.

Carousel will be at The Albert Halls, Bolton, from Wednesday, April 9 to Saturday, April 12 at 7.30 pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

Tickets are available from the society box office on 01204 62364, Albert Halls box office on 01204 334400, 07792652818 or alberthalls-bolton.co.uk.