A HOARD of hungry hippos, the Monopoly Man and a host of other characters took to the stage for play with a board game theme.

Children from Shincliffe Primary School put on the performance of new play Playing By the Rules at the Assembly Rooms, in Durham, on Friday.

They have been working with community interest theatre company Off The Page since January and had help from Durham Student Theatre to put on the show.

Playwright and director Christina Castling, who runs the company, said: “Off the Page is all about using drama and creativity to help build confidence in young people.

“A lot of children haven’t been on stage before and for us it’s not about looking for a star but making sure everyone has a fabulous time.”

The children, aged between eight and 11 years old, have been taking part in after-school workshops to prepare.

Teaching assistant Joanne Henderson said: “The kids get a lot from it and it gives them a lot of confidence and the chance to perform on stage.

“There’s been a great uptake. They’ve been learning their lines at dinner time and break time so they’re really keen.”