THEY are called the Yorkshire Avalanche Dodgers and they’ve probably been doing plenty of that on their way to rehearsals in Marsden this week.

But the show will be on the road poor weather or not, playing to packed houses at the Parochial Hall from February 15 with performances running throughout the following week (except Sunday).

Most of the tickets have already sold for what many view as the must-see show of the season. It raises thousands of pounds for local charities.

Peter Armitage has written what will surely be another box-office bonanza of a show for the Dodgers, Up Spartacus.

“It’s a cross between Up Pompei and Spartacus,” said Peter. What else would it be?

He is directing the show and the choreography is by Doreen France and Susan Gledhill.

Doreen has done 26 of the shows which has been a huge relief to Peter.

“I did the choreography for the first one and quickly decided that wasn’t a very good thing.

“I swore by everything I hold dear that I would never touch the job again.”

Fortunately, Peter knew someone who would. Over the years he has worked alongside Doreen on many musicals and pantos and knew she would do a great job teaching 30 or more lads to dance.

“She’s taught the hopeless with enthusiasm and enough fun to make them enjoy dancing and she’s taught the talented to be experts.”

For all those who know the Avalanched Dodgers, then they will know there’s no dodgy dancing in this outfit.

There’s plenty of silliness, good old-fashioned banter and all the traditional elements you would expect from an all-male panto.

That means lots of chaps singing and dancing and dressing up in the daftest of fashions

Peter has assembled his usual cast of experienced performers – many of whom have appeared in the shows year after year.

Tony Norcliffe will play Spartacus, Mike Hellawell is cast as Claud and Steven Hendren gets the short sword as Boadicea.

Andrew Stead is back in his traditional Fairy role this time, no doubt living up to his bubbly title of Fairy Liquidus.

Trevor Berry is back to play what else but the Herald.

Tickets available from Duncan’s Barbers on 01484 8345311 during shop hours.