Once upon a time is the general theme of the upcoming Saltus Grammar School production 'Grimm Tales'.

The play has been adapted by Carol Anne Duffy and Tim Supple.

It runs from tomorrow through Thursday at the Saltus Grammar School Secondary Department Hall.

School drama teacher Sarah Davison said the play encompasses many of the fairy tales written by the Brother's Grimm.

"The Brothers Grimm set down their collection of fairy tales in 1812," she said. "Most of the stories familiar to us were incorporated in their collection.

Over the years Snow White, Cinderella and all have been widely told and widely sentimentalised to appeal to a young audience.

"This production takes us back to the originals ¿ dark, sometimes sinister but always magical."

For this reason, Ms Davison advised parents that the production contains some violence and some scenes may be unsuitable for very young children.

Seven Grimm Brothers tales ¿ Hansel and Gretal, The Musicians of Bremen, The Hare and the Hedgehog, Ashputtel, Snow White, Rumplestiltskin and Brother Scamp ¿ will be presented in one magical performance. "One character is a man too bad to be let into Hell and banned by St. Peter from Heaven," said Ms Davison.

"Also a band of robbers scared off by the music of a donkey and her friends, a wicked queen who dances to her death and two beautiful stepsisters blinded by their jealousy of little Ashputtel.

"All this and more in the exciting production of 'Grimm Tales'." Tickets, $15 for adults and $10 for students under 18, are available from the Senior Department Office. Seating is limited, so it is advised to book early.

Show times are 7.30 p.m. each night.