MEMBERS of The Castle Players are brushing off their costumes, practising their 'thees' and 'thous' and putting their best feet forward in preparation for an outdoor summer show with a difference.

They are rehearsing The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield, for a short, outdoor tour in July.

Director Gordon Duffy-McGhie said: “The Complete Works is an entertaining, vaudeville-style jog through all of Shakespeare's plays and perfect for the company to tour.”

Presented by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Limited, this popular play will visit Mickleton Village Hall, the Bowes Museum and All Saints and Salutation Church in Darlington.

Mr Duffy-McGhie, who is joined by Laura Shaw and Keith Irons in directing, said: “The overall flexibility of the piece and its popular appeal makes it ideal for audiences and actors alike. It requires no set or special effects, just props and costumes, and we’re giving a great deal of thought as to how we can put something together in a safe way for those in it and those who come to see it.”

Castle Players chairman, Laurence Sach, said: “We are looking forward to being back to business as usual next summer when we will be giving A Comedy of Errors the full Castle Players summer production experience. This summer, however, we are just delighted to be able to perform again. Everyone is looking forward to acting in front of a live audience.”

Performances are as follows:

Friday, July 9, at 7pm, in Mickleton Village Hall: tickets £8 and under-16s, £3. Call 01833 640909 or email mickletonvh@gmail.com.

Saturday, July 10, and Sunday, July 11, at 2pm, in The Bowes Museum: tickets £8 and under-16s, £3. In person from Chocolate Fayre, Barnard Castle or visit www.castleplayers.co.uk.

Saturday, July 10, at 7pm, in All Saints & Salutation Church, Blackwell, Darlington: Tickets £5 or children, £3. Call 01325 281487.

For more details, visit www.castleplayers.co.uk.