A SPECTACULAR firework folk story will light up Newsham Park tomorrow night and kickstart Liverpool’s Carnival weekend.

The Emperor and the Tiger is a story featuring a mechanical tiger who graces a 100m long stage, an emperor, colourful carnival dancers, and fabulous firework effects.

The free event starting at 9pm also officially opens the Imagine Festival, a 10-day festival for young people with colourful, theatrical splendour which can be enjoyed by all.

Created by Walk the Plank and carnival arts organisation Kinetika, the tale is inspired by a traditional Bengali folk tale.

The greedy emperor is demanding his taxes, and the people must pay. Set to an original soundtrack magical special effects animate the tale of the Emperor, and the Wise Man who persuades him to change his ways with a little help from the Tiger.

More than 50 local community dancers from Liverpool have been rehearsing with choreographer Jeanefer Jean Charles from Kinetika to master the art of carnival dance.

Liz Pugh, producer from Walk the Plank and director of the show, said: “We’ve been working with local performers to give the people of Liverpool a fantastic opportunity to be part of the Capital of Culture celebrations. It’s set to be a great evening of free family entertainment.”

Production manager Ellen Turner said: “The community participants have come from all over Liverpool.

“Rehearsals started on Monday and everybody has been working non-stop to learn their parts for tomorrow’s show. They have all shown real dedication to the project.

“Those on stage range in age from 14 to 40 and will be wearing fantastic colourful costumes.

“The show is for all of the family and everyone should come down to watch and enjoy this firework spectacular.”

Fiona Gasper, executive producer at the Liverpool Culture Company, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the Emperor and the Tiger as the opening event for Liverpool’s carnival weekend and the Imagine festival.

“The performance will kick-start 10 days of free events for the whole city to enjoy.”