YOUNG people are turning on the style for a village production.

Oakworth Methodist Pantomime couldn’t go ahead this year.

But members of KYDZ: Keighley Youth Theatre and the Oakworth panto cast are performing an ‘alternative’ cabaret-style show.

The event – hosted by Keighley panto comic, Philip Smith – will feature favourite showstoppers from musicals, TV and pantomime.

“The primary focus of both groups throughout the year has been to keep the young people together in a safe environment and give them something to focus on amidst the turmoil of lockdown and home-schooling,” said a spokesperson.

“The hope has always been that they would finally be able to get the young people back on stage in front of a live audience.

“Neither group would be able to put on a full show on their own, with rehearsals affected so much by bubble-closures, but this collaboration has enabled them to put together a fantastic production to be presented on stage in costume with full theatre sound and lights.”

There will be six performances at Oakworth Methodist Church, between October 2 and 9 – 2pm matinees on both Saturdays and 7pm shows on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday October 9.

To help keep people Covid-safe, seating capacity has been reduced and ventilation improved and people are invited to bring their own refreshments to avoid queueing.

For tickets, visit OakworthMethodists.org or call Peter Howarth on 07968 618312.

Meantime, preparations have begun for the next Oakworth Methodist Pantomime – Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves – to be presented from February 19-26, restrictions permitting. Auditions for young people to join the existing cast take place on October 11. There are vacancies for girls and boys, aged eight to 16, to play some of the main roles and chorus parts. Rehearsals start in November.

Email dhowarth@oakworthmethodists.org by October 9 to register interest.