Students will be taking on an ambitious project as they perform an adaptation of a well-known fantasy trilogy.

New Rickstones Academy, in Conrad Road, Witham is putting on a production of His Dark Materials, a two-play dramatisation of Philip Pullman’s book series of the same name.

The challenge of getting the show ready to perform, which has involved creating puppets, video segments, and tracking down realistic costumes, has been momentus for staff and children alike.

Edward Hake, head of drama, said: "The preparation for the show has involved a production arts team of five students who have been making puppets under the direction of head of performing arts, Keith Hiscox, since September.

“Most of the characters on stage are accompanied by their own animal puppet which represents their soul.

“We have also obtained full size, highly realistic polar bear outfits for which we have constructed set pieces such as the throne to represent the polar bear king’s power.

“The show has involved media department students creating a series of video sections which will also be performed within the show.”

His Dark Materials is being performed at New Rickstones Academy from tomorrow to Friday, at 7pm.

Tickets are £6 for adults and £4 for concessions. To book, visit newrickstonesacademy.org