A HERITAGE attraction in Torfaen will be filled with characters from classic novel ‘The Railway Children’ as part of a musical theatre production later this year.

The Pontypool and Blaenavon Heritage Railway will host the production from ‘Stardreams Musical Theatre’ — the only company in Wales to feature a real steam train a theatre production.

Edith Nesbit’s The Railway Children, first published in 1906, is a classic children's' book and has been adapted for the screen six times, including a feature film and television series.

The plot follows children seeking to prove their father’s innocence after he is arrested on false spying charges.

With the help of an ‘Old Gentleman’ who regularly takes the train near their house, the children are thrust into a world of espionage and adventure.

Ahead of the big show in May, the company are appealing for sponsorship from local businesses and individuals, to help launch the show to new heights.

Robert Edmunds, of the Rhondda Cynon Taf-based theatre company, was inspired to launch the show after seeing a West-end production of The Railway Children.

“I thought to myself I have to do this,” he said. “It’s such a good production and seeing the audiences faces — especially the children — it’s something really special”.

After receiving recommendations from theatre technicians from the Ebbw Vale and Blackwood area he decided to use the heritage railway, making the leap to host a fully outdoor theatrical experience.

To help fund the show’s costs — which include venue hire, costumes and radio mics — the company is appealing to local businesses to help support the show.

Sponsorship packages will offer advertising and publicity as well as free tickets to all of the theatre’s productions during the year.

Mr Edmunds added: “We have been really lucky and already had some businesses support us from Abergavenny and Blaenavon.

“They don’t know anything about the company but think it’s a very unique idea and want to see it happen.”

He added: “The heritage railway is also behind us and has welcomed us with open arms. Plus, trying to create railway for stage would have been very artificial.

“I think (the show) is going to be really good for the community of Blaenavon, especially being a World Heritage Site. Torfaen council have also been really supportive.

“Some people can’t afford to go and see the show in London so bringing it to the local community and making it more affordable was the idea.”

The show will also run between Saturday, May 27 and Wednesday, May 31. Tickets are priced at £12 per adult and £10 per child / concession.

To purchase tickets or for additional information on the production, call the official ticket line on 01443 439466 or visit theatre company’s website: www.stardreams.co.uk.

For more information on sponsoring the event as a business, contact Robert Edmunds on 07518065462.