THE young stars at the Forefront Stage School turned in another showstopping performance as they raised the curtain on their annual pantomime.

Jack and Beanstalk kicked off in style at Alloa Town hall last Friday and will run until Saturday night.

A slight spin on the classic tale, the story follows Jack, his brother Archie and Daisy who try to keep the last remaining animal – Moo-Moo the Cow – from being eaten by the insatiable Giant.

From high above, in his cloud castle, he decrees that only eating Princess Lulu would quench his appetite, though his minion Fleshcreep has already conned poor Archie into selling him Moo-Moo.

Jack then mounts a daring rescue mission, backed by his family and Fairy Flora and defeat the wicked giant and restore order to Inverdevon.

The show features an array of well-known and original songs, as well as a visually-impressive setting that gives the incredible young cast a perfect forum to showcase their skills.

Nadia Smith took on the title role with ease, as do Siobhan McDade and Hannah Ross as Archie and Daisy, respectively.

Alanna White was in fine voice as Fairy Flora, with Hannah Shedden showing her range as Lulu.

Comic relief was provided in spades by the stone-deaf King and Queen, played by Ross Turnbull and Kieran McLennan, though the prize for laugh of night may have gone to Moo-Moo the cow, courtesy of Lucy Dawson and Molly MacDonald.

However, special praise is reserved for Taylor Williams who steals the show with his endearing portrayal of the insufferable Fleshcreep.

Jack and co. are further supported by the Inverdevoners – a troupe of wonderful dancers and singers who deliver a dazzling display of choreography throughout.

The show's production team includes producer Amber Rennie, director Lynsey Stalker, choreographer Sarah Kerr and stage manager Scott Davidson.

Ms Rennie said: "We have worked tirelessly since August with our talented pupils to bring Clackmannanshire our best pantomime yet.

"The family ethos we are proud to have at the heart of our stage school is no doubt the driving force behind our success.

"We are so very proud to yet again produce our annual pantomime with floods of outstanding reviews – these comments from our audiences make every moment of work worthwhile."

In addition to the show, the Forefront youngsters have been fundraising this year for their chosen charity Rachel House.

The group previously went along to perform at the hospice and staff and families were also able to attend the performance last Saturday afternoon, with Forefront also holding a collection for Rachel House after the shows.

Jack and the Beanstalk will run until this Saturday. For information on performance times and to book tickets, call 07599 977 732.