Robinson Crusoe played by Sam Higginson and McBlackbeard the Pirate played by Will Murray.

PANTO fans have been promised a “swashbuckling extravaganza” of fun as Newport Amateur Theatrical Society (NATS) takes to the stage for its latest production.

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Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates will include classic panto features such as an outrageous dame and detestable baddie, with a love story at its heart. There will also be a bit of mystery and an unexpected twist mixed in for good measure.

The production sees the hero Robinson Crusoe inherit a treasure map and go in search of long-lost gold with his mother, Ma Crusoe, brother Willy, and Willy’s girlfriend Polly.

However, after persuading Polly’s father, Captain Bowsprit, to take them in his ship in search of the treasure, they are thwarted by the fearsome pirate Blackbeard and his rival Crimson Hawk.

After becoming marooned on a treasure island inhabited by unfriendly natives, will the heroes find a way to escape?

The only way to find out is to go along to the production which runs from January 20-22 in the village hall, and NATS chairman, Lyndsey Millington, said fans wouldn’t be disappointed.

“Our latest production will appeal to all ages, so come along and boo the baddies, cheer the goodies, shout ‘he’s behind you’, sing along to songs ancient and modern and forget the reality of a damp January day for a few hours.”

The show, by Paul Reakes, features a 42-strong cast aged from six-50+ and starts at 7.30pm on Friday (Jan 13), 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Saturday (Jan 14) and 2.30pm on Sunday (Jan 15).

Tickets are £6.50 for adults, £5 concessions, and are available from the Saffron Walden Tourist Information Centre or by calling 01799 524002.