A LEGENDARY childrens' tale was given a thoroughly modern make over by pupils at Walton-le-Dale High School.

Staff and children have been working hard, rehearsing since last September and this week, they put the finishing touches to their musical production of Ali Baba.

Now with a 90s feel, young Ali - a pizza delivery boy - finds a hoard of gold in a garage and buys himself a restaurant empire. The audience were even treated to appropriate refreshments, such as pizza and Turkish delight.

However, some traditions remained. The pantomime boasts lots of slapstick and laughs aplenty, and even a camel or two!

Sue Hunt, head of music, say the school prides itself on choosing new and unusual plays for their productions. She said: "It's a very colourful and fun show. We even had some authentic costumes from parents who'd been to Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

"A professional choreographer came in to sort out the dance routines. The children have excelled themselves and have been very creative. Many have never done anything like this before."

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