MALDON’S pantomime society is gearing up for their 2018 shows this month which will be their adaptation of Peter Pan.

The Maldon Amateur Pantomime Society (MAPS) are a group that have been performing a Christmas Pantomime every year for more than twenty years.

This year, with an expanded production crew and new cast, they will be performing J.M Barrie's classic Peter Pan from Friday January 19 at Maldon Town Hall.

Peter Pan (also known as the Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up or Peter and Wendy) is the story of a mischievous little boy who can fly, and his adventures on the island of Neverland with Wendy Darling and her brothers, the fairy Tinker Bell, the Lost Boys, the Indian princess Tiger Lily, and the pirate Captain Hook.

It has been adapted for the stage and screen numerous times, with the character of Peter being a cultural icon.

MAPS perform six shows a year over two weekends in January to combined audiences of more than one thousand people. They have always believed that a good quality pantomime is important, as it is often the first introduction to live theatre for children.

Each and every show is made possible by the talented people behind it. The society is not just composed of the cast, helpers range from the designers of superb scenery and colourful costumes, to the artists behind the hand-made props and sets.

It was formed in 1993 by members of local amateur dramatic societies, as well as other interested people. MAPS focussed solely on producing quality and traditional Pantomimes each year, whilst aiming to stimulate interest in pantomime for adults and children and supporting local charities.

After having performed throughout the 1990s at the Plume School in Maldon, MAPS had the honour of staging the first major production in the town hall in 2000, and have performed there ever since.

The performances take place on Friday January 19, Saturday January 20, Friday January 26 and Saturday January 27.

Tickets cost £10 or £8 for adults and concessions, with balcony seats £12.

Visit www.maldonpanto.co.uk.