Stagecoach Youth Theatre York has never staged a Victorian Old Time Music Hall in its 12-year history - until now.

"This sad fact is about to be rectified this Christmas when we produce a festive programme for all the family entitled The Season To Be Jolly," says artistic director John Cooper.

Presented by a 40-strong company of eight-to-25-year-olds and introduced by "your very own chairman", Mr Kit Hildyard, the music hall includes classic songs, comedy sketches and even a melodramatic monologue.

The first half is devoted entirely to this magical genre of musical entertainment which thrived in the latter years of Queen Victoria's reign. The second half is a celebration of all things Christmas.

The Season To Be Jolly runs in the Stagecoach Studio Theatre, Trinity Hall, Monkgate, York, from Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm. Tickets: £6, concessions £4.50; ring 01904 674675.

Updated: 10:05 Friday, December 10, 2004