THE Tring Festival Kids' Show this year will be hosting a sinister classic with a comical twist in The Sweeney Todd Shock n' Roll Show.

Starring in the lead role of the evil role of the demon barber is 11-year-old James Peniston. This play follows on from his success as Mike Teavey in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at last year's Tring Festival. James was chosen to play the part of Sweeney Todd during auditions in January.

The Chesham Boys' School pupil says: "I was absolutely delighted when they told me I had got the part. I was over the moon."

James joins a talented cast of 65 children all aged between eight and 14 who are taking part in this all-singing, all-dancing production by Peter Miller and Randall Lewton.

But those who are worried about children being cast in such a sinister production are in for a big surprise. James says: "Our version is a comedy and a musical and not the original version which is dramatic and scary."

James, who has been acting since the age of three, first took to the stage as Michael in the Caucasian Chalk Circle but has appeared in a number of productions since then and he loves it.

He adds: "I love acting. Playing another character makes you feel like you can be whoever you like, from whatever story. It's amazing how you can fit in with the part. I think it's exciting."

James attends rehearsals once a week but gets help from his mum Jo with his lines, although he is not the only aspiring actor in his household. Younger brother Sammy, eight, is hot on James' heels and has auditioned for a number of productions himself but James is happy to be in the limelight for now.

He adds: "I can't wait for the play to open because a lot of people want to come and see it."

The Sweeney Todd Shock n Roll Show opens at The Court Theatre at Pendley Tring from Tuesday night until Saturday, June 18 which includes a matinee performance. Tickets can be reserved online at www.courttheatre.co.uk or by calling 01442 824673/4.