Forget the number seven, nearly 40 Leatherhead children will share the limelight when they star in this year’s professional panto, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, alongside industry professionals.

Drew Cameron, the show’s director and star headliner, was a judges’ favourite for his comedy impressions in Britain’s Got Talent in 2008 and was thrilled by the kids’ enthusiasm to take part.

Leatherhead Theatre was swamped by youngsters wanting to be in the That’s Entertainment Productions show, and The Arnould School of Dance and Drama provided the young performers.

Chris Gidney, the panto producer, said: "It’s always special using local children, giving them the chance to shine, and be part of the great tradition of pantomime."

Victoria McDonald, the school’s principal, is creating some of the production’s choreography.

She said: "[It’s] quite moving that many of those I have nurtured over several years are able to put what they have learnt into practice with such an experienced production company."

The Arnould School of Dance and Drama has been established for 65 years and is now an acclaimed theatre academy with classes held in the Surbiton, Kingston, Chessington and Wimbledon areas.

The show will run from Wednesday December 24 until Saturday January 5.

Tickets cost £16.50, concessions £13.50, family tickets available. Call the Box Office on 01372 365141 or visit theleatherheadtheatre.org.