REHEARSALS are under way for a Halesowen theatre group’s double-billed new year pantomime.

Startime Variety has chosen Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood as its annual family show in January.

Written and produced by Startime stalwart Mike Clifford, weaving the two tales together his casting twist is that the babes will played by grown ups – real life father and daughter Clive and Leanne Ditchfield.

Taking the part of the Dame – Mrs Hood – will be Ray Chapman for the second year running and a camp Friar Tuck will be played by Adam Chester.

Kirsty Aldridge is the thigh-slapping Robin Hood while Beth Hemmings is Maid Marion.

A few inventions to the cast list include comedy duo Google and Wi-fi performed by Bill Speake and John Pemberton respectively and Princess Miseryguts played by Lynda Dunn.

The panto can be seen at the Cornbow Hall from Wednesday January 28 until Saturday January 31 with a matinee on the Saturday.

Tickets, priced £10, concessions £9 and family tickets £35, are available by calling 07901 055685, online at www.startimevariety.co.uk or through the Startime Variety’s Facebook page. All tickets for the Saturday evening performance are £12.