THE rags to riches tale of a young orphan’s search for happiness returns to the stage in musical fashion.

Pershore Operatic and Dramatic Youth Section presents Annie at the town’s Number 8 Community Arts Centre on Friday and Saturday (February 22-23).

The youngsters will tell the story of Annie, played by Charlotte Rushforth, who lives in an orphanage ruled by the iron-fisted Miss Hannigan and makes several unsuccessful attempts to escape before a chance encounter changes her life.

She is whisked away to join billionaire Oliver Warbucks in his mansion for Christmas.

Deceit, jealousy and greed follow but the charming Annie wins over Warbucks’s heart and finally finds a happy family of her own.

Full of catchy songs and lots of humour, the cast of 45 young people and a dog should provide something for all the family.

Tickets are £11 for the evening performances at 7pm, or £9 for the 1.30pm Saturday matinee.

For more information and tickets, go to number8.org or call the box office on 01386 555488.