A QUARTET of local youngsters are playing the title roles in this year’s pantomime from Keighley Musical Theatre Company.

The group, formerly Keighley Amateurs, has recruited two pairs of children to play the Babes in the Wood at Victoria Hall next month.

Twelve-year-olds Scarlett Miller, from Cononley, and Max Hibbert, from Cross Hills, will play the roles for four performances, while Dylan Dean, 11, from Long Lee, and Kessia Hadfield-Walker, nine, from Addingham, will take over for the other four performances.

Each of the Babes will be in the Kiddies Chorus for the other four performances during the January 27 to February 3 run of the family show.

They take the stage with a host of children and adults in the Keighley’s panto adaptation of the Robin Hood legend.

Keighley Musical Theatre Company spokesman David Brett said: “We may have changed our name, but we continue our fine tradition of high-quality, fun-filled family pantomimes.

“Babes in the Wood is going to be a treat for the entire family. Written once again by the kings of panto, Keith Marsden and Geoffrey Rundle, it promises to be a fresh and fun family pantomime full of well-loved songs and tradition.

“Continuing previous years’ wonderful productions, this time the pantomime will again be directed by Peter Whitley and Judith Chapman.

“Judith will also be choreographing the cast of 50 people, and with musical direction from Geoff Garrett this completes the winning team!”

Leading the cast of adult principals are Leanne Watson as Maid Marion, Fiona Spencer as Robin Hood and Leah Ogrizovic as the Fairy.

David added: “Mark Hutchinson will exchange the cheers for boos this year as the villain Sir Casper, the Sheriff of Nottingham.

Philip Smith, Danny Duckworth and Bailey Roper will keep you laughing as Muddles and the bumbling robbers Dan and Desmond. Dean Harness will be adding glamour as our schoolmistress Dame, Penelope Penwiper.”

“We once again have a magnificent line-up of amazing dancers and adorable kiddies, and a great supporting cast including a band of very Merry Men!”

Babes in the Wood will run on Saturdays January 27 and February 3 at 1pm and 5.30pm, Sunday January 28 at 2.15pm, and midweek January 30, January 31 and February 2 at 7.15pm.

Tickets are available from a variety of outlets.

Visit keighleymtc.com, call 03000 301303, or go to the The Copy Shop, next to Sequins fancy dress shop off the High Street roundabout.