A GROUP with a long tradition of staging fantastic pantomimes and plays is currently in rehearsal for "Cinderella".

Whitestone Players have staged pantomimes annually for more than 50 years and it has some experienced actors this year who will be performing with some new cast members.

Actors last took to the stage in 2020, just before the pandemic struck, and return this year with a colourful and action-packed performance of the Alan Frayn pantomime, "Cinderella".

This will be the 53rd pantomime that the Players have staged.

Chloe Hawker has graduated from the chorus to the main part of "Cinderella" with Buttons played by Craig Lambton, his third time in a leading role.

The pantomime includes many cast members including an exceptional group of children, six from Cheriton Bishop Primary School, two from Queen Elizabeth's in Crediton and two who attend school in Alphington who play the parts of villagers, ghosts, soldiers, fairies, animals and ballroom dancers.

Bryan Durrant plays the role of Grizelda and first took to the stage with the Players in 1989.

Look out for some of the other characters, the Baroness, Prince, Dandini, Bodget and Legget to name but a few.

The pantomime's producer Laurence Blades has been involved in 40 pantomimes with the Players and the director, Judith Read, has been involved for more than 25 years.

The pantomime will be staged at Whitestone Parish Hall (EX4 2JS) from Tuesday, January 31 to Saturday, February 4.

Performances will be staged at 7.30pm each evening with a 2.30pm matinee on the Saturday.

Tickets are selling fast and there was recently just four tickets remaining for the matinee, with Saturday evening close to selling out.

Tickets are priced at £6 for adults and £3 for children.

Tickets are available from: www.ticketsource.co.uk/whitestone-players  or telephone 07977 439 419.

Further details can also be found on Facebook at whitestonepanto .

The Whitestone Players are this year supporting the charity, Hospiscare and hope audiences will give generously.

Whitestone Players look forward to seeing you.