Twins Caitlin and Conor Dodds from Tamworth from Birmingham's Youth on Stage are the am dram stars of the week

Youth on Stage, a theatre group for young performers based in Birmingham, are presenting the show as their Christmas offering at the Dovehouse Theatre in Solihull from December 5-8.

Caitlin and Conor are both 10 and after acting out some scenes from a performance of My Fair Lady, they were spotted by the chairman of Youth on Stage and asked to audition for her group.

They always perform together, although Hansel and Gretel are their first principal roles opposite each other. The twins fully support each other as they both have different strengths.

I spoke to them about their love of performing.

“We love to perform, especially pantomimes with audience participation and children joining in and having fun just like us on stage,” says Caitlin. “We also love the more serious shows with older actors, as we can learn so much from working alongside them.”

Conor adds: “Hansel and Gretel is a panto about a brother and sister and their adventures in the Petrified Forest after their mother sends them away because they are so poor. They come across a witch who they must defeat along with their friends. It’s a traditional tale of good against evil with lots of fun along the way.

“There’s lots of magical scenery and props in the show made by our fantastic crew. It’s so realistic,” he laughs.

The twins say that learning their lines has been a lot easier together, as they can help each other when they need to. Of course, living in the same house has meant that they can practice together at every opportunity. I bet mum and dad know this panto inside out too.”

Caitlin adds: “We will be singing in the show, not only with the rest of the cast but we also have a song that we sing together when we are at the Candy Cottage, which is really exciting.”

Performing is wonderful, but it can be daunting for youngsters. Caitlin and Conor have taken these leading roles in their stride however.

“When we step out on the stage, it’s the best feeling ever seeing all the people there who have come to see the show and enjoying themselves,” says Conor. “We do get a bit nervous, but the excitement takes over and we just have the best time. It is always sad when a show is over, but then we look forward to the next one!”

l For tickets for Hansel and Gretel visit www.youthonstage.org or email deb0brook@outlook.com