YOUNG performers are exploring the darker side of the festive season in their Christmas production.

Children from Darlington Arts Academy CIC are rehearsing for The Nightmare Before Christmas and Other Dark Ta les, inspired by the Tim Burton poem.

The young performers will take the audience on a journey through the dark world of shadows during the first half, while in contrast, the second half will be filled with bright lights, musical favourites, festive comedy and traditional Christmas performances.

Geoff Oldham, technical director for the academy, said: "This year, we wanted to challenge the concept that a Christmas show has to be all tinsel and fairy lights.

"The shadow techniques will intrigue and amaze our audience and have enabled our young people to do something different. Mixed with the light-hearted second half, we know our audience will leave smiling, ready for the festive season."

The show is at Hummersknott school, on Saturday, December 17, at 3pm.

Tickets, priced £4 for adults £4 and £2 for children, are available from Darlington Arts Academy CIC on 01325-734166.