Festive film favourite Nativity is hitting the Shropshire stage with a Shrewsbury musical group

The production, from Shrewsbury Musical Theatre Company (SMTC), follows the group's success with 'Beautiful - The Carole King Musical' and 'School of Rock'.

SMTC is putting on the festive show, which features more than 40 local children throughout the six performances during show week, at the Barnes Theatre in Shrewsbury.

The show opens on Wednesday, December 18, and continues every day until the closing performance at 1pm on Sunday, December 22.

Scott Sutherland, company director and chair of SMTC said they were thrilled to be bringing a festive favourite to the stage - and sharing their talented cast with the audiences.

He said: "Throughout show week no fewer than 42 children from within the local community will grace the stage at Barnes Theatre, Shrewsbury. 

"For some, it will be their first ever stage performance, although you won’t necessarily be able to tell which ones, thanks to the wealth of talent amongst the teams of youngsters taking part.

"The story begins with a Midlands-based primary school, St Bernadette’s, and a teacher, Mr Maddens, who is attempting to put together a musical version of the nativity with the help of his goofy and hilarious teaching assistant, Mr Poppy.

"Chaos ensues when Mr Poppy overhears Mr Maddens saying that a Hollywood producer will be coming to see the nativity and turn it into a film.

"Written by Debbie Isitt, the creator of the hit film series, and a collaboration with composer Nicky Ager, this heart-warming and joyous production features everyone’s favourite songs from the films, together with some new tunes to fill you with festive spirit in the run up to Christmas."

There are discounts for those making group bookings and a  licensed bar will be available for refreshments and snacks.

There is free parking and children will also have the opportunity of a photo with Santa and his elves, while SMTC will also be doing a retiring collections for the charity, Genie's Wish.

For full details of show times and tickets visit the box office at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/shrewsmusicals.