News, gossip and listings from the amateur stage

THERE can be few more evocative settings for alfresco Shakespeare than Little Moreton Hall.

The beautiful Elizabethan manor house near Congleton is invariably the star of the show when Alsager Community Theatre stage their annual productions in the courtyard.

Lord Arthur, played by Andrew Bill, looks at the bomb brought by Herr Winklekoff, played by Lenny Love, surrounded by the ladies, from left, Nellie, played by Rachael Spencer, Lady Clementina, played by Brenda Hunt, Lady Windermere, played by Barbara Horton and Sybil, played by Claire Owen. Below, Lord Arthur and Sybil Merton.

But if you're prepared to compete with the black-and-white landmark, the company are holding open auditions for roles in this year's production of The Merry Wives Of Windsor.

Among the characters in search of an actor is the vain and greedy Sir John Falstaff who fancies his chances with a pair of well-to-do housewives, only to be shrewdly out-manoeuvred.

Exploring familiar Shakespearean themes of romance, jealousy, disguise and mistaken identity, the play has a rich cast of leading and supporting characters.

A read-through of the play will be held in Alsager Library on Wednesday, February 3 at 7.30pm, with auditions following on February 10 and 17 at the same time and place.

For further information call director Diane Lane on 01260 280813.

Next week, Congleton Players are presenting Alan Ayckbourn's Absent friends, the comedy of middle-class manners and social embarrassment.

A tea party thrown by friends for the recently-bereaved Colin finds the guest of honour surprisingly relaxed while the others are stressed out.

Tensions which built up before the arrival of Colin simmer, and personal antagonisms are ready to erupt.

Absent Friends is at The Daneside Theatre, Park Road, Congleton, from February 2 to 6 at 7.30pm. Tel 01260 271095.