THE QUEEN was full of praise for Chichester Festival Youth Theatre (CFYT) when she visited the city last month and now audiences can see why she was so enthusiastic.
As in previous years, the award-winning youth group will bring a festive production to the main stage.
Beauty and the Beast is a new adaptation by Anna Ledwich from the original fairy tale, with music and lyrics by Richard Taylor.
Prejudice, jealousy, compassion and love are woven through this magical story, studded with enchanting and deliciously scary characters.
Dale Rooks, whose work with CFYT includes Grimm Tales, Running Wild and Peter Pan, directs a visually spectacular show featuring newly composed songs, with set design by Simon Higlett and wonderfully inventive costumes by Ryan Dawson Laight.
The show, which runs from this Saturday until December 31 is for ages seven and up. There will also be a relaxed performance on December 31 at 11am.
Tickets are from £10 to £28. Family tickets and discounts are available on certain performances. Visit the website at: www.cft.org.uk or call 01243 781312.