Hundreds of children have gathered in the Tithe Barn, Bradford on Avon, to rehearse Benjamin Britten’s production of Noye’s Fludde.

The production, a retelling of Noah’s Ark, will celebrate the centenary of the composer and involves people from the town and surrounding villages.

Pupils from St Laurence School and nearby primaries – as well as adults taking the main roles and producing the play – have been involved in rehearsals since the Biblical production was launched in February.

Tickets sales have topped 1,500 and are sold out for tonight and tomorrow evening.

There are a few tickets left for matinee performances today and tomorrow, from 4pm to 5pm, which can be bought on the door. Christina Hall, the production’s marketing coordinator, said: “It is phenomenal. We always hoped it would be a success and everyone is really pleased.”

Members of the community have also been involved in the preparations, which have included making a large rainbow, constructing a massive tap and crafting the animal headgear the children will wear.

Evening performances also include a performance of Ona’s Flood, commissioned from Harvey Brough, with orchestra and choir.

The production is being staged in the Tithe Barn, because its design is shaped like an upside-down ark.