A ROALD Dahl classic will take to the stage at Ellesmere Port’s Theatre Porto this month for some family friendly half term fun.

Staged by Disley Theatrical Productions and directed Theatre Porto’s Associate Director Phil Cross, The BFG will be on stage at the Whitby venue from Tuesday, February 20 until Saturday, February 24.

Written by celebrated children's author Roald Dahl in 1982, The BFG is an expansion of a short story from Dahl's 1975 novel Danny, the Champion of the World. The play was adapted for the stage by playwright David Wood and premiered at the Wimbledon Theatre in 1991. Other adaptations include a 1989 animated film with Sir David Jason providing the voice of the BFG and a 2016 theatrical live-action film produced by Walt Disney Pictures, directed by Steven Spielberg, and starring Mark Rylance.

Chester and District Standard: 'The BFG' cast in rehearsals.'The BFG' cast in rehearsals. (Image: Theatre Porto)

The BFG tells the story of ten-year-old Sophie who is in for the adventure of a lifetime when she meets the Big Friendly Giant. Naturally scared at first, the young girl soon realizes that the 24-foot behemoth is actually quite gentle and charming. As their friendship grows, Sophie's presence attracts the unwanted attention of Bloodbottler, Fleshlumpeater and other giants. After traveling to London, Sophie and the BFG must convince Queen Victoria to help them get rid of all the bad giants once and for all.

Speaking about the production, Luke Disley, the play's producer said: “This is a project 8 years in the making for me and Phil. It feels like we’ve been talking about it for longer! The second the rights became available, I jumped at the opportunity, and I believe we’re only the second company in the UK to stage this adaptation since 2014.

“Phil has managed to bring Roald Dahl’s magical story to life in the most amazing way, including composing an entire incidental score of music. Loads of fun for kids and adults alike - expect impressive puppetry and moments of magic. I’m incredibly lucky as a producer to work with such an experienced director and creator of family theatre like Phil, and we’ve managed to cast some of the most talented actors in the North West.”

Full details, including dates and performance times can be found at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/disleytheatricalproductions.