Alison now has a copy of the much sought after, specially commissioned script for this summer's production in the park.

The next task – putting the director and crew's ideas on paper and into working action.

She said: "There are a lot of ideas and excitement flying around from director Joe (Sumsion) and the team.

"We have to piece them all together. No one person decides the themes of the play, it's a very collaborative process.

"There are two main themes. Firstly we have the posh, refined human being side with the Ashton Memorial in the background.

"Then we descend into the woods with the beasts. This is a more alternative world in the forest, much grungier and earthier.

"Joe also said he wanted to use around 1910 as the period of the show, so I have looked at fashion designs at that time.

"For the sisters in the play I have deliberately made their costumes impractical.

"The first time we see them they are being wheeled in cart and refuse to walk so constrictive costumes add to that. I have also given them some ridiculous shoes to take that a step further.

"Now I have the script I have made story boards of scenes and drawings of possible costume ideas.

"The next step is to bring my story boards and costumes drawings to be costed up, and to make sure they are workable. Then we have to have enough of it ready for the actors to start rehearsing with so they can be as prepared as possible."

Alison is based in Manchester but has long dreamed of becoming involved in the Dukes famous productions in Williamson Park.

She is a regular freelance designer to other theatres in the north west and has also designed costumes for cruise ships including the QM2 and QE2, and for soap opera Brookside.

She said: "This is my first park production, although I have seen them before. It is a fantastic institution to be involved in."

n Beauty and the Beast runs from July 3 to August 9, with performances Monday – Saturday at 7.15pm.

Tickets cost £8.50 for the preview performance on July 3.

Tickets for all other performances start from £15 with concession, bargain and group prices available.

Book before June 1 and save £1.50 per ticket (not available with any other discount). To book call the box office on 01524 598500.

l Are you interested in seeing the Dukes team put the performance in the park into action?

Are you a budding designer, theatre technician or script writer with valuable opinions to give?
Get in touch and we will get you involved in the creative process.