IT’S OFF to Nursery-rhyme Land for audiences at this year’s Oakworth Methodist Church pantomime.

The church is presenting the tale of Humpty Dumpty with eight performances between February 14 and 21.

As usual the title is simply the starting point for a story that travels far and wide and involves a huge number of characters, both human and immortal.

Humpty Dumpty is a magical being whose adventures bring him into contact with Mother Goose, Puss in Boots, Thumbelina and the Queen of Hearts.

Also playing a part in the plot will be Simple Simon, Jack Spratt, Tommy Tucker, Georgie Porgie and Peter Piper.

The dozens of nursery rhyme and fairytale characters are played by a cast entirely made up of local children and teenagers.

Humpty Dumpty is devised and produced by David Howarth and directed and choreographed by Judith Chapman.

Mr Howarth said the story begins after Nursery-rhyme Land has run smoothly for many years and everyone is happy.

He said: “One day the egg falls off the wall and All The King’s Men try in vain to get Humpty back inside his egg.

“Loveable, naive Humpty learns to use his magical powers but unwittingly causes Nursery-rhyme Land to collapse.

“The wicked Knave of Hearts and his evil henchmen, Grimm and Gruesome, seize their chance to create even more havoc as our friends take refuge in neighbouring Fairy-tale Land.”

Mr Howarth said costumes, scenery and special effects would be as spectacular as ever, including a working carousel and an ultra-violet scene in the Knave of Hearts’ den.

Humpty Dumpty will be staged on February 14, 16, 17, 18, 20 and 21 at 7pm. There will be 2pm matinees on both Saturdays.

Tickets cost between £5 and £7 by visiting oakworthmethodists.org or by calling 01535 642625 or 07925 257344.