FINAL preparations are under way for a New Year spectacular in Almondbury.

Actor Sir Patrick Stewart is involved in the production which starts in Almondbury in the new year. The Mirfield-born actor has provided the voice for The Snow Goose. The project is the work of a group of Huddersfield University music technology graduates who have teamed up with local theatre experts to create a new, ultra-atmospheric form of storytelling.

They’re using advanced technology in a version of Paul Gallico’s much-loved The Snow Goose which features the voice of Sir Patrick.

Graduate Michael Gaughan said: “In our field you cannot easily go and get a job straight away.

“You need to develop your own projects and opportunities, and this new form of performance is an ideal way for us to show what we can do.”

The performance is based on the tradition of son et lumière – a combination of sound and lighting effects.

It is a heart-tugging drama set during World War Two and the Dunkirk evacuation and they decided it was ideal for its strong story and family appeal. The Snow Goose makes its debut at All Hallows’ Church in Almondbury on Monday, January 2, and runs on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays until January 21. It follows the 2010 son et lumière which told the long story of the church and its village and featured the vocal talents of top actors Timothy West, Prunella Scales and Gorden Kaye, which was seen by 2,000 people.

Tickets for the 2012 performances, which begin at 7.30pm, are £10 (with concessions available) from Kirklees Booking office on 01484 223200 or www.kirklees.gov.uk/townhalls.