CATS is promising Snow White with a twist in its show opening this week at Chard Guildhall.

Chard Amateur Theatre Society is opting for seven gnomes, rather than dwarves, in its take on the traditional fairytale – and they are played by the group’s ‘kittens’, the eight to 14 year-olds.

Producer Lorraine Marshall, who has been with the group since 1996, and whose two sons are part of the CATS family, said the team had endeavoured to give the youngsters a bigger role.

Lorraine said: “We have a cast of 18 children, including four or five new starters who’ve really jumped in the deep end and are having a great|time.

“I love being able to involve the children – and this year they’re even more integral to the panto.”

The music is a mix of classic and contemporary from the live band – Rihanna’s Disturbia, ELO’s Mr Blue Sky, and Together Wherever We Go by Gypsy.

Performances run from Thursday to Saturday at 7.30pm with a final day matinee at 2.30pm.

Tickets cost £8 stalls, £8.50 balcony and £9 tiers, with concessions £6.50 available for seats in the stalls. They are available from Barrons in Holyrood Street or on the door.