THE classic tale of Robinson Crusoe will be recreated as a pantomime by Malmesbury's Athelstan Players drama group this weekend.

The curtain goes up on the production at Malmesbury School at 7.30pm tonight and continues until Saturday.

There will also be a matinee at 2.30pm.

The production is the last time the cast will tread the boards at the school, which is relocating to a central site on Bristol Road.

Director and producer Christine Mace said rehearsals have been going on since September.

"It is a typical pantomime complete with a dame, plenty of dancing and a real barrel of laughs," she said.

"It has lots for the children, with plenty of audience participation, which is what pantomime is all about."

The dame is being played by Megan Mills, of Reeds Farm, while Debbie Charman will take to the stage as Robinson Crusoe.

Mrs Charman has also choreographed the children's dances, which includes a Hawaiian number and an Aztec dance.

Tickets are available from Travel House in Malmesbury or on the door, with adults priced at £5, children £2.50 and £2.50 concessions.