A NEW production at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre gives an old story a new twist to delight young and old alike.

The Emperor's New Machine, which runs at the theatre between April 7 and 22, follows the story of a vain Emperor whose love for clothes is his downfall.

The fashion obsessed ruler lives in his wardrobe but his world falls into turmoil when television style gurus Cookie and Crumble start to dress him in ridiculous clothes.

Moving Hands production company mixes Hans Christian Andersen's The Emperor's New Clothes and British inventor classics like Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Wallace And Gromit to make a brand new story full of visual tricks, excitement and illusion.

The Emperor's New Machine is a funny, exciting and touching story about friendship and trust.

Tickets for Emperor's New Machine, which is in the Rep's Door theatre, cost £9 for adults and £4.50 for under-16s. Call the box office on 0121 245 2025.