FAIRYTALE costumes linked to the vanishing art of ballroom dancing are bringing the ability of North-East choreographer Liv Lorent and designer Paul Shriek back to centre stage.

Middlesbrough Town Hall will echo to the sounds of the cha-cha, Viennese waltz, rumba and samba on Thursday for the debut performance of the BalletLorent Ball.

Liv has received cash help from Middlesbrough's Community and Cultural Fund, Northern Arts and the Arts Council for her latest piece.

Her partnership with Paul Shriek, which began in 2000, ensures stunning ballroom costumes.

"We'd love as many people as possible to join in, even if all they can do is link arms and sway," said Liv.

Call the town hall on (01642) 242561 for tickets. The event moves to The Dome, Whitley Bay on Saturday (0191-252 3505), before adding a spectacular touch to Live Theatre's New Year's Eve party at Newcastle (0191-232 1232).