CHARLES Dickens' classic tale Great Expectations will soon be transported to the stage at Malvern Theatres.

The award-winning Unicorn Theatre brings to life a new adaptation by playwright John Gifford, aimed at children aged nine to 14.

Viewed through the eyes of poor orphan Pip and the spoiled Estella, on their journey from childhood to adulthood in Victorian England, a myriad of extraordinary characters are brought to life with live music and seven energetic performers.

Mesmerised by Estella's beauty and made to feel ashamed of his lowly position in society, Pip determines to better himself. Eccentric Miss Havisham, the intimidating Mr Jaggers, his obsequious clerk, Mr Wemmick, Magwich the convict and kind-hearted Joe are just some of the personalities encountered as Pip heads for the brutal but exciting City of London.

Great Expectations follows in the footsteps of Unicorn's Red Red Shoes and the 2001 production of Tom's Midnight Garden, which won the Barclays TMA Equity Award for Best Show for Children and Young People.

Unicorn Theatre was formed in 1947 in the belief that theatre for children should be judged by the same high standards as the best of adult theatre.

The company is building the first purpose-designed theatre centre for children in the heart of London, due to open next year.

Great Expectations plays in the Forum Theatre from Wednesday to Saturday, April 9 to 12. Show times are 6pm on Wednesday, 10am and 1.30pm on Thursday, 10am and 6pm on Friday and 2pm and 6pm on Saturday. Tickets are £8.50 for adults, £6.50 for children from 01684 892277.