WHAT the Dickens? Burnley theatregoers can jive in the aisles with the old maestro himself when St Stephen's Operatic and Dramatic Society stage the rock musical Ebenezer, based on Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol.

The show, loosely based on the famous tale that has been a tear-jerker down the generations, will be directed by Howard Rogers.

Stewart North will be in charge of musical direction and the choreographer will be Tracey Heywood.

Society publicity officer Malcom Stewart said: "It's the first time I've seen the show and from the rehearsals so far it promises to be very lively and should appeal to all ages."

Keith Pounder takes the lead role of Ebenezer Scrooge, Peter Greenaway is his nephew Fred, Kenny Entwistle is Bob Cratchit, Jean Beeston Mrs Cratchit and Christopher Wassell Tiny Tim.

Ebenezer will run from at the Hall in Woodgrove Road, Burnley, from Tuesday October 23 to Saturday October 27, starting at 7.30pm.

Ticket prices are £5 for adults and £4 for children, and pensioners can buy £4 concessionary tickets for Tuesday and Wednesday. Phone the Ticketline on 01282 438477.