When the curtains open on Friday, January 4 at Rhydycroesau Village Hall it will be the start of the 40th annual production of the local institution that is Rhydycroesau Pantomime.

To mark the occasion the group is presenting an updated version of its very first pantomime – Robinson Crusoe.

Over the past 40 years the group has never before staged the same pantomime twice and each is written, produced and performed by local people.

This year Robinson’s desert island is full of some very odd castaways but also lots of familiar faces including Trefor Jones as Rudi Crusoe, (Robinson’s brother) and Jonathan Jones, (a Celebrity Castaway). Trevor and Jonathan were both in the very first production and have starred in many different roles over the years.

Also appearing is perpetual ‘baddy’ Heather Smith as the hard-hearted Captain Pott.

Once again the Pantomime will be directed by Debbie Jones.

Writer Ian Room wrote the original Robinson Crusoe script and has also created many memorable pantomimes over the last four decades and once again he has played an integral role in putting together the new version of the Daniel Defoe classic.

Robinson’s ship sets sail from the harbour at Morda (where they 'Morda boats') but soon gets into trouble and things go from bad to worse with hilarious consequences.

As always there is a happy ending and lots of music and song to keep things cheerful.

Rhydycroesau Pantomime is a family favourite night out and tickets are now on sale at Park Avenue Stores on Mount Road.

Prices have been kept low at £5 for adults & £2.50 for children.

Performances are every Friday and Saturday night throughout January and the first week in February starting at 7.30pm.

There is also a matinee on Sunday afternoon, January 20, at 2.30pm.