Young actors are putting the finishing touches to their school's upcoming drama production.

Eastern Daily Press: Cast photo. PHOTO: Nick ButcherCast photo. PHOTO: Nick Butcher (Image: ©archant2016)

Into the Woods promises to make audiences laugh, cry and become immersed in the wonderful fairy tale world of the Brothers Grimm.

A cast of about 30 students from Lowestoft's Ormiston Denes Academy, aged between 11 and 16, will perform the tongue-in-cheek insight into the world of Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood and Jack and the Beanstalk.

Head of drama, Laura Catchpole, said: 'Rehearsals began at the end of September and have been going really well.

'It is rewarding to see the students' characters come together and it is things like this which make our job most satisfying.'

In the lead up to the shows, students have treated Lowestoft shoppers to 'flash-mob' performances in the town centre.

Ms Catchpole explained that the 'flash-mobs' give students confidence by taking them out of their comfort zone while simultaneously promoting the production.

James Tree, 14, who is playing Jack, in Jack and the Beanstalk, said: 'Performing gives me a buzz and I would like to go into performing arts as a career. This gives me great experience, especially the flash-mob which was quite nerve racking at first.'

The production features a live student-led band including two staff members, one current pupil and two former pupils.

Ms Catchpole added: 'I would like to thank head of music Jackie Turner and music teacher Kate Curtis.

'Also thank you to David Cousins and Carl Lark for building our set and to Amy Barwood who has helped with co-ordinating the production. There are so many people to thank who, without their help, the production would not happen.'

Morgan Woollard, 13, who plays Little Red Riding Hood, said: 'Doing things like this at school is great and I think I would like to go into acting in the future. I like the fact we have become one big family; everyone helps each other.'

Do you know of a community group organising an amateur production? Tell The Journal by calling 01502 525820 or email lowestoft.journal@archant.co.uk