PUPILS at Newbridge Comprehensive have been busy rehearsing for their latest dramatic production, which is being staged this week.

More than 80 children, mostly from the lower school, are involved in The Opera Ghost, and have been working hard for over a month.

Drama teacher Guy Smith has written the play, which is based on the story of the Phantom of the Opera, and made the set, which includes staircases and twinkling stars.

Mr Smith used to work for the Royal Shakespeare Company before becoming a teacher. "The children have been working very hard," said the school's publicity officer, Sarah Llewellyn.

"The production is to be very professional, with lots of special effects, strobe lighting, guns going off and firearms - and even a falling chandelier.

"The Opera Ghost follows earlier successful productions by the school, such as A Christmas Carol, which was staged in December, and The Three Musketeers last year."

The production opens tonight and continues until Friday. Tickets cost £2.50 for children and £4 for adults, and a family ticket for two adults and two children costs £10. There is limited availability on the door. Contact the school on 01495 243243 to book tickets.