CHARLES Dickens' infamous Christmas tale of redemption will be brought to life with music this week by Chocolate Theatre.

Hoping to get Swindonians into the Christmas spirit, the cast of 40 aged between four years old and 80 will take to the stage from Thursday evening.

Director Michaela Ballard-Kearns said: "I can honestly say that this will be our most beautiful production to date, with an elaborate set and some exciting stage affects, bringing our ghosts to life - ironically, in one of Swindon's most haunted buildings.

"Jacob Marley (Simon Roberts) makes an interesting entrance; he stretches himself through a full length mirror. Christmas Present (David Lound) is a larger than life, jolly, yet ethereal character, who floats amongst the Victorian villagers, with Scrooge (Steve Huggins), at his side while the villagers rejoice Christmas.

"More excitingly, 'Ghost Of Things To Come' (Bob Linnegar), is a staggering 12ft tall puppet, who looms over the stage; he is actually quite spine tingling, along with his menacing souls. The puppet was kindly loaned to us by local puppet maker, Robin Ainslie-King.

"Our Tiny Tim is played by the adorable eight year old Alex Rowland, who recently moved to the area after living in Cyprus with his parents for several years. Alex recently trod the boards with the cast of 42nd Street on London's West End.

"This show is just perfect to get Swindon in the Christmas spirit - quite literally!"

She added that although the show has children in the cast, it was recommend for children aged 8+ due to the ghosts.

Musical Director James Stevens & Choreography by Hollie Brown.

The musical will be staged at Citifaith Church on Regent Street between Thursday and Saturday. Doors open at 6pm and the production starts at 7pm.

Tickets are £15 or £13 for under 16s and are available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/buytickets?