THE Mart Theatre in Skipton will continue its long standing, Christmas family tradition by performing its annual pantomime this weekend.

The pantomime Beauty and the Beast will be staged at The Mart Theatre at 7pm tomorrow and at 1pm and 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.

The story begins as Skipton townsfolk are riding high on a wave of euphoria after they were awarded the honour of being the happiest place to live in the kingdom!

Alas, the revelry was short lived as the much loved King Albert was tragically struck down by a runaway lawn mower. From this tragedy, darkness befell the town as the wicked Prince Alexandre ascended to the throne.

Prince Alexandre threw the most regal coronation ever seen and all of the townsfolk were commanded to attend, each bringing with them a high ticket gift.

However, a local beggar woman offered up a single, meagre rose, which the Prince sneered at in contempt.

The beggar, enraged, places a curse upon the prince, turning him in to a hideous beast. And this is where the tale truly begins...

Tickets cost £8 for adults, £6 for children and £24 for a family of four. They are available by ringing the box office on 01756 709666 or visiting themarttheatre.org.uk