A CLASSIC Dickens “coming-of-age” novel will come the stage in Keighley next month.

Keighley Playhouse will present Great Expectations at their theatre in Devonshire Street from Monday to Saturday, December 10 to 15.

The play follows young Pip on his journey from poor orphan to possible power and wealth, as he gains and loses friends and is eventually humbled.

The eventful plot involves escaped convicts, daily visits to a wealthy landowner, an apprenticeship offer, and Pip’s efforts to become a gentleman and win the heart of Estella.

A spokesman said: “Tim Baker, who adapted Great Expectations in 2009, has stripped the story to the bare elements, and this is mirrored by the staging that director Geoff Whitley has opted for.

“A notable element Baker introduced along with composer Dyfan Jones was song. Many of the speeches have been written to music, sometimes with the whole cast joining in, yet it is not a musical.

“Geoff Whitley has decided to stick with the spoken dialogue Dickens had intended rather than singing.”

Call 07599 890769 to book tickets.