CHILDREN are about to take centre stage as a high-tech theatre opens its doors to youngsters from the local community for the first time.

About 165 children, aged from seven to 17, are performing as part of York Stagecoach’s end of year productions on Saturday (December 15) with a further 80 children aged between four and seven taking part in fun sessions.

And their theatre for the day is part of the new £30m Department of Theatre, Film and Television building at Yorkm University, which was officially opened in July 2011.

The theatre has the same design as the famed Crucible Theatre in Sheffield and boasts the latest technology including a sophisticated lighting desk and audio facilities.

York Stagecoach principal Sally Thrussell said:“We are all very excited about this fantastic opportunity for our students, who come from schools across York and the surrounding villages, to perform in this world class venue.”