ARABIAN Nights contains some of the greatest stories ever told.

The magical collection of ancient yarns of princes and fishermen, flying horses and glittering treasures, talking animals and powerful genies, has enchanted mortals for centuries.

From Monday, November 28, until Friday, December 2, Kendal College will be transforming its acclaimed The Box theatre into an Arabian tent for a madcap and inventive retelling of the fabulous fables.

As audiences enter the college's acclaimed theatre space, they'll be transported into another realm and can expect a dazzling show oozing original music, comedy and characters.

The production sees KC's performing and technical theatre students slip back in time and head for a faraway land of mystery and wonder, where a cruel king listens as a beautiful princess regales him with the timeless tales. Will she find the one story that will save them both, and fill his heart with joy and love? Or is she (and her servants) doomed to die, and the king to remain forever alone?

The glittering cast includes Michael Sinclair-Smithson as Djinni, Jasmine Wallace plays Princess Cyra, in the guise of Boy King Dara will be Lewis Hill and Eva Clifton takes the role of The Seer.

Assistant head of school (creative arts) at Kendal College, Hilary Pezet, is fizzing with festive spirit and looking forward to staging Arabian Nights. Hilary explains that Arabian Nights was chosen because it was a show that they felt they could have great fun with: "There are so many bizarre and fantastical stories contained in it, from flying horses to Genies coming in and out of bottles - three in total.

"It has been great fun making camels and elephants and working out how to transform a tortoise into a beautiful princess. The challenges have brought us the most fun as we decided to experiment with the maddest ideas to see what was possible using our bodies and assorted props.

"This year we are staying throughout the run in The Box theatre instead of touring as it allows us to use the great technical equipment that we have. The students have written some great original songs for the show and all are playing some sort of instrument throughout which adds to the atmosphere.

Performances for schools run at The Box (located next to Kendal Museum) from Monday, November 28, until Friday, December 2, with shows at 10am and 1.30pm.

Public performances are staged on Thursday and Friday, December 1-2, from 7pm.

Tickets for the evening shows can be booked at www.trybooking.co.uk or on 01539-814634.