Local dramatic society the Service Players will be performing Tom Stoppard’s Arcadia at the Erin Arts Centre on December 6, 7 and 8.

The production will provide a fitting finale to the society’s 75th anniversary year.

This acclaimed comedy presents scenes from the modern day and from the early nineteenth century in the same room of the same stately home.

The story plays with the notion of time to spectacular effect and has been much lauded for its wit and insight.

A New York Times review called Arcadia: ’Stoppard’s richest most ravishing comedy - a play full of wit, intellect, language, brio and emotion.’

Michael Hoy, author and former teacher, is directing Arcadia. This will be the ninth play that Michael has directed for the Service Players, having presented two Agatha Christie classics, as well as Noises Off, Uncle Vanya and others over the last twelve years.

As well as a cast of experienced players including Howard Caine, Karl Bovenizer and Beth Espey, the society also welcomes Toby Smith and Alex Reynolds to their ranks.

Toby has a varied performance history, having starred in several plays and musicals at King William’s College. Alex is fresh from roles in the musicals Oliver and Mulan, and work with National Theatre Connections, and has the tricky task of playing a character in both time periods. Other roles in Arcadia are played by Rachel Martin, Lisa Creighton, Rachael Joughin, Rachael Webb, Bernard Wood, Mike Trout and Arbory Player, Juan Bridson.

Michael Hoy said: ’Arcadia is one of my all-time favourite plays and I’m very pleased to be directing it with this talented and enthusiastic cast.

Rehearsals are going well and we look forward to welcoming our audiences to the Erin Arts Centre to share with us an evening of outstanding theatre.’

Arcadia is on at the Erin Arts Centre on December 6, 7 and 8, curtain up at 7.30pm.

Call the box office on 832662 for tickets.