AN open air production of the children’s classic Hansel and Gretel will mark a new partnership between East Lancashire’s newest theatre and a leading tourist attraction.

In June, a production team from Oswaldtwistle Civic Arts Centre will stage a performance of the fairytale at Mrs Dowson’s Farm Park on Longsight Road, Blackburn.

Hansel and Gretel was performed to a sell-out audience at the Civic in February and now the theatre hopes to recreate the same success in the fields.

The fun, interactive show with an added touch of pantomime, makes it perfect for the whole family.

Since being taken over by the charity Hyndburn Arts in 2015, the Civic has aimed to become a producing theatre, putting on its own shows as well as taking in touring productions.

Events manager, Emma Holden said: “The team here have really worked hard over the past few years to build our reputation of putting on high-quality, enjoyable performances that are accessible to all our community.

“To be able to take what we do elsewhere and allow more people to enjoy our work and in such a unique way, is such a privilege.”

The Civic has been touring productions regularly over the past 12 months, with performances at Haslingden Community Link, The Dog Inn at Belthorn and at local schools and now they can add Mrs Dowson’s to the list.

Ethan Dowson, production manager at the farm said: “We are thrilled to be working closely with the fantastic team at the Civic Arts Centre, it’s very exciting to be bringing one of my own childhood favourite stories to the farm.”

Hansel and Gretel, Mrs Dowson's Farm Park, Saturday, June 2, 6pm. Details from www.mrsdowsons.co.uk