by Martin Jefferies

Thanet youngsters are to get a sneak preview of one of the world's smallest theatres, weeks before its official reopening.

The tiny Tom Thumb Theatre on Eastern Esplanade, Cliftonville, will burst back onto the isle’s arts scene in December.

However, local schoolchildren aged 9-14-years-old will be able to work with professional actors, directors and designers during 'Play in a Week' workshops that take place throughout the Autumn half term (October 26-31).

Youngsters will rehearse for a production of Grimms' Fairy Tales, which will grace the Tom Thumb stage at the end of the week-long event.

Jessica Jordan-Wrench from the theatre said: "Play in a Week offers children a rare opportunity to rehearse and perform inside an historic theatre. We hope the workshops will promote confidence, creativity and co-operation and build core performance skills."

The Tom Thumb Theatre sold for £130,000 at auction earlier this year following the death of one of its former owners. It was bought by Frankie Jordan, an actress who has appeared in TV series such as The Bill, Heartbeat and Doctors.

The miniscule building features just 60 seats, a stage measuring a mere 10x7ft and a compact changing room. But despite its size, the charming venue has hosted a huge range of shows and plays, including a 2005 production of Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest.

Ms Jordan-Wrench said an in-house creative team are planning a season of events that will place the theatre "at the heart of the community", launching with a Christmas show.

Play in a Week sessions take place at the Tom Thumb Theatre from 9am-3.30pm Monday to Friday and from 10am-8pm Saturday.

The course costs £180, with discounts available for siblings. For more information, email Jessica Jordan-Wrench on jessicajordanwrench@hotmail.com or telephone 07876 752382.