TAUNTON Brewhouse and theatre company Metta Theatre have announced the casting and creative team for their Christmas circus musical extravaganza The Little Prince at the venue.

The actors and circus artists - who will perform alongside a 24-strong local youth ensemble - include Joshua Frazer who will play Prince, Rosalind Ford as Pilot, Tilly Lee Kronick as Rose/Fox, Hazel Lam as Fox/Rose, Ben Kaufman as Drunkard/Lamplighter/King, and Freya Stokka as ensemble.

Based on Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's story, audiences of all ages will join the planet-hopping prince on a unique intergalactic adventure.

Joyously adapted for the stage complete with spectacular circus performers and original songs, the tale of friendship and imagination is the perfect family treat this festive season.

The Little Prince is directed by Metta co-artistic director P Burton-Morgan, who wrote the book and lyrics, with score by Candida Caldicot, set and lighting design by Metta co-artistic director William Reynolds, sound design by Beth Duke and costume design by Rosalba Mensah. Joseph Buckler is musical director and Freya Stokka associate director.

P Burton-Morgan said: “Five years in the making, it's a joy to finally share this extraordinary production with audiences.

"Packed full of cyr wheel, unicycle, juggling, aerial hoop, fire and lots of acrobatics this circus musical will be a feast for both eyes and ears.

"I can't think of a more important time to be reminded of the values of trust, friendship and kindness that this story embodies."

Will Bourdillon, artistic programmes manager at Taunton Brewhouse, said: "We’re over the moon to be presenting this classic story of friendship and imagination, retold in a spectacular new way by Metta Theatre. We look forward to welcoming people of all ages to the theatre for a festive treat."

There will be a relaxed performance on Tuesday, December 20, at 11am, allowing people with autism, learning disabilities or sensory and communication disorders to enjoy theatre shows without worrying about making a noise, moving around or leaving the auditorium. The same day at 7pm, the audio described performance will feature a live commentary describing the action, delivered to participating audience members via a headset.

All performances of The Little Prince will be creatively captioned, offering an opportunity for deaf, deafened, and hard of hearing audiences to immerse themselves more fully in a performance.

The Little Prince runs from December 6 to 30. Tickets are on sale now from £16. Book online at tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk or call the box office on 01823 283244.