LITTLE ones were kept on their toes during a bite-sized ballet production in Greenock.

Scottish Ballet's 'wee version' of Hansel and Gretel left tots mesmerised at the Beacon Arts Centre.

The specially adapted 50-minute show aims to inspire children to discover the magic of ballet.

Lucky four-year-old Hayley Kerr won tickets through a special giveaway sponsored by Gourock ferry firm CalMac and enjoyed the production with her aunt Kirsty Cartin and her mum Catriona Kerr.

Kirsty said: "It was a perfect mix of acting and dance.

"My four-year-old niece followed the story well, she could tell how the characters were feeling by the expression of the dancers.

"The whole performance was magical."

Robbie Drummond, who is the managing director of CalMac, said the company was keen to support Scottish Ballet's efforts to make dance inclusive.

He said: "We are pleased to have partnered with Scottish Ballet again – this time to treat local children and their families in the Inverclyde area to the highly entertaining performances of Wee Hansel and Gretel.

"It was great to see so many families and schools at the Beacon enjoying live dance and to hear their reactions during the show.

"Supporting the arts in our local communities is important to CalMac.

"We are delighted to support Scottish Ballet in their efforts to make dance accessible to all."

Kirsten Cockburn, the head of sponsorship at Scottish Ballet, said they were thrilled to bring the show to Greenock.

She said: "Scottish Ballet is delighted to be supported by CalMac, helping us take Wee Hansel and Gretel to communities across Scotland including Greenock.

"The CalMac competition winners enjoyed the shows last week at the Beacon – it was the perfect introduction to ballet for young children and their families.

"As Scotland’s national dance company, the support we receive is vital in helping Scottish Ballet reach as wide an audience as possible."