The curtain rises on Snow White tonight with Megan Leigh tackling her first principal role in the title role.

"We chose Snow White as it is a real favourite among the cast and it is a very popular choice with audiences,'' said Gemma Leigh from the Tiverton Players, who are performing the fairy story

in the Gorse Hill Community Centre in Chapel Street, Swindon.

There are 15 members in the cast aged from 11 years to 70 years, plus dancers from the Tanwood School of Performing Arts, based in Swindon, all under the direction of Paul Greenhood.

"We are so lucky to have the Tanwood dancers again this year. They have been busy behind the scenes practising their routines. The biggest challenge for the dancers was that they didn't actually rehearse with the cast until the Sunday before the show!'' said Gemma.

The panto is very much aimed at the family with a special children's song for audience participation, and big numbers such as We Built This City and Shut Up And Dance.

Gemma says that the most challenging aspect of the panto for the director is his cast who all get carried away with their ideas.

"But they are only trying to put on the beat performance possible for our fantastic audiences,'' said Gemma.

The comedy duo, Dilly and Dally are played by Kimmy Crewe and Debbie Knotts and the Wicked Queen is Lyn Garnham.

Snow White runs until Saturday January 26 from 7.30pm nightly. At the matinee performance doors will open at 2pm show starts at 2.30pm.

Ticket prices are £6 adults, £4 chilren, family (two adults and two children) £18. To book tickets call 07780 965226 or visit the centre between 9am and 1pm Monday to Thursday.