CHILDREN are creating their own Big Brother universe this week as part of a series of drama workshops.

Seventy children, aged between ten and 14, are taking part in a range of challenges in drama, performance and visual arts at Middlesbrough Town Hall Crypt.

The challenges have been set by the community arts organisation, Busy Ape Arts.

They explore the theme of being observed, including the television programme Big Brother and George Orwell's novel 1984.

Yesterday, the young performers got to work making props and producing videos.

The public will be able to attend the group's final performance on Friday, in the crypt, at 6pm. Admission is free.