A FORMER Black Country pantomime group which has performed in the region for more than 40 years has become a youth musical theatre company.

The Young Ones, who put on shows annually at Netherton Arts Centre, said they have made the switch due to an increase of local pantomime productions.

Carl Cook said: “We have been performing pantomimes with adult invited guests taking principal parts for over 40 years.

“However due to the increase of pantomimes across the area and lack of youth musical theatre opportunities for local kids we have decided to change to become a youth musical theatre company.”

The group’s first show in their new guise - supported by Dudley Performing Arts - will be a stage adaptation of the ever popular Disney movie 'High School Musical'.

Featuring the smash-hit songs including “Start of Something New” and “All in this Together”, the show will be take place at the Northfield Road venue stage between Wednesday, February 15, and Saturday, February 18.

Tickets for the show, which starts at 7.15pm each night and 2.15pm on the Saturday, are priced at £10 and available from Chris Sykes on 01384 895266.