MUSICAL theatre star, Peter Karrie, is set to play a panto dame for the first time in a festive production of Puss in Boots.

The production will take place at the Blaenavon Workmen's Hall between December 26 -30 and is described as the first panto in the town for more than 15 years.

Peter Karrie, known for his roles in Phantom of the Opera and Valjean in Les Miserables, has written and directed the panto alongside making his first outing as 'Dame Doris Dimple'.

Currently in rehearsals, the production was the brainchild of Jenna Curtis and Mr Karrie who set up arts academies in Blaenavon and Blackwood a year ago.

Ms Curtis, of Peter Karrie Productions, said: "We hope people will support it and the main objective is to get footfall back through the theatre.

"We have had lovely comments during the rehearsals so far and it's about seeing people back on the stage and using the stage in Blaenavon."

The plot follows Will Puss on his journey protecting the Kingdom from 'Wisteria the Wicked Witch' and will include performances from Ystrad Mynach dance school Shappelles and other West End talent.

This includes Katy Treharne, a leading west end performer who appeared opposite Peter in Phantom as Christine Daae and acclaimed musical director, John Quirk.

Commissioned by The Blaenavon Workmen's Hall, this new panto aims to bring a new vitality to the genre with tickets priced at £14.50 with a £12 concession for OAPS, students and children.

Shows will take place at 6pm between December 26- 30 with additional 2pm showings on December 28 and 30.

For more information or tickets, visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/blaenavonworkmenshall or search 'Blaenavon Workmens Hall' on Facebook.