X FACTOR challenger Sadie Owen is starring as Cinderella in the first panto to be staged at Kidderminster's Rose Theatre.

The 24-year-old singer, who reached boot camp in the popular TV talent show with her group Sinergie earlier this year, will play the title role in the home-grown production in January.

Cinderella With A Twist is being staged by theatrical charity Limelight in association with the town’s Splinters Dance Studio.

The rip-roaring show has been written by former Splinters' dancer Joe Hall and is directed and choreographed by the studio’s principal Jane Bennett.

The cast includes Paul Standing as Dandini, Darren Leeson and Joe Hall as the Ugly Sisters, Sam Wall as Buttons Paul Hart as the Prince and Scott Denton as the Wicked Stepmother.

Song and dance is provided by the studio’s senior ensemble, aged 13 to 21, with three teams of younger dancers aged five to 12 adding to the fun.

Limelight chairman Lucia Sabel said: “It's a family show and will appeal to all ages. As for the twist – wait and see.”

As well as being a first for the Rose, it is also the first time Splinters has performed a panto, with previous notable productions including Fame – The Musical, Back To The Eighties and Summer Holiday. Sadie teaches dance to the junior members. Her band Sinergie plays out venues throughout the area. Tickets for the week-long run from January 4 to 9 are going fast with the Saturday matinee already a sell out. They are available from the Rose Theatre box office on 01562 743745 or online at rosetheatre.co.uk