THEATRE-LOVERS are being invited to enjoy a new production as a new season opens at a Northwich venue.

The 2023/24 season at The Harlequin Theatre in Queen Street kicks off this Thursday (September 7) with Northwich Presents Strictly Sex Factor and The Fat Lady Sings in Northwich.

This double bill of fun and laughter comes from Malcolm Barker, a regular director at the threatre, who brought box office success last February with his production of Calendar Girls.

These plays comes from the Little Grimley series by comedy writer David Tristram, who allows the plays' titles to be changed to reflect the venues.

A Harlequin spokesman said: "We are continuing the stories of an inept drama group which are called NITWITS, standing for Northwich Inhabitant Thespians With Interest in Theatre Society.

"In the first part there is no evidence of sex but just a ploy from NITWITS to drag audiences from their television screens on a Saturday night to enjoy a compendium for the popular Saturday night shows.

"The second half of the evening deals with the arrival of a new drama group trying to take over but NITWITS are galvanized into action and... it's never over until the fat lady sings.

"So why not join this well-respected group for a great evening of comedy entertainment."

The cast welcomes the return of actors from previous productions in the series with chairman Gordon, played by Mac MacNeil; Joyce the treasurer and secretary played by Lydia Clare; and diva of the group Margaret, portrayed by Tina Wyatt - all of whom appeared in Calendar Girls.

They are joined again by David Rogerson as stage manager Bernard, who played the male lead in The Welkin, which featured at the theatre last June.

The spokesman added: "Harlequin Players is looking forward to welcoming you to the new season at our charming theatre where you can enjoy a drink before the show in their revamped bar and then have a reserved seat in the theatre where all seats are tiered and there are no restricted views."

Performances start at 7.45pm and will run on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.

Tickets are £11 for adults, £10 for students or £6 for under-16s and are available online or from the box office on 01606 624 517.

The box office and details of the full season can be seen on the theatre website at harlequinplayers.com/season-20232024.