Shelly-Ann Thompson, Freelance Writer

Members of the LTM National Pantomime 'Howzzat!' in dress rehearsal at the Little Theatre.

The 66th Little Theatre Movement National Pantomime Howzzat! opened on Tuesday night, Boxing Day.

Writer Barbara Gloudon, decided to put cricket on stage coinciding with the ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 in the Caribbean.

Howzzat! was written and directed to capture the imagination of today's children, who might not fancy the sport.

The story revolves around a tale of the World Village Cricket Cup Finals being played between two communities - Gully Bank and reigning champions Midfield. The story heats up as it is possible that Midfield could lose the Cup. How will it end? Who will make the most runs or take the most wickets? To find out, see Howzzat!.

Family spectacle

The annual production is directed by Brian Heap with music by Grub Cooper and an orchestra led by Calvin 'Bubbles' Cameron. Movement is by George Howard and Professor Rex Nettleford.

The annual pantomime has been a family spectacle in Jamaica since 1941 when Jack And the Beanstalk debuted at The Ward Theatre, downtown Kingston.

Howzzat! continues today at the Little Theatre, Tom Redcam Avenue, at 7:30 p.m., but takes a break tomorrow night, New Year's Eve.

Admission: $700 each for children and adults.