A new family musical that puts a twist on the classic tale of Hansel and Gretel has opened at a children’s theatre in Merton.

The original German fairytale, first published by the Brothers Grimm in 1812, tells the story of brother and sister Hansel and Gretel who, after venturing into the woods, almost fall foul of a witch with a taste for small children.

Children will now be able to enjoy the classic tale in a new light as the fairytale turned musical production arrives at the Colour House Children’s Theatre at Merton.

The family musical features seven original songs by Merton Councillor Linda Kirby and is the 14th musical she has written for the theatre. She says: “It’s different from the original fairy tale.

"It’s geared towards both adults and children because if the adult is bringing a child to the theatre, you want them to be engaged as well so we are writing on two different levels.

“It’s traditional but has some twists – for example we have a tap-dancing witch.

“It’s a professional cast and production, but we often have students out of college take part because we are only doing productions at the weekend so they can work in the week.

"It gives them a real opportunity to do a 10-week run and be in a real theatre with an audience."

Hansel and Gretel; Colour House Theatre; Merton Abbey Mills; April 27 to June 30; shows Saturday and Sunday, 2pm and 4pm; £10, concessions £8; visit colourhouse theatre.co.uk