PUPILS of Westholme School, Blackburn, swapped their uniforms for costumes to stage Mozart's The Magic Flute.

Students and musicians at the girls' upper school joined forces to put on the performance, despite the composer taking "a pretty dim view of women."

Eric Millest, director of music, said: "This was intended to broaden the experience of our singers and instrumental players and it has been pleasing to hear the girls talk of how much they are enjoying Mozart's music."

Ellie Smith plays the mad Queen of the Night, Rebecca Hutchinson is Papagena, Alexia Rowbottom, Papageno, Sally Crawshaw, Pamina and Hannah Moody, Tamino The opera, which runs until tomorrow, has been adapted to allow girls to take on the roles usually sung by men.

Tickets range from £4 to £7 from the school on 01254 506070 or on the door.