Manx Amateur Drama Federation is to present the Easter Festival of Full-Length Plays from Saturday, April 20 to Friday, April 26 at the Gaiety Theatre.

Now in its 69th year, the festival will bring together some of the finest amateur drama talent from across the British Isles and will include a performance by local company Rushen Players of Arlene Hutton’s Last Train to Nibroc and one by Hog the Limelight who will be presenting A Murder is Announced by Agatha Christie, adapted by Leslie Darbon.

In addition, three local companies will be appearing on Tuesday, April 23 in a competitive evening when they present the one-act plays they performed at the MADF one-act play festival in February.

Jill Colby, of the Guild of Drama Adjudicators (GoDA), will be adjudicating at the festival for the first time.

She has been a full-time professional actor, director and actor trainer for more than 40 years.

MADF president Michael Lees said: ’Every year the festival attracts a loyal following of visitors to the Isle of Man and showcases some truly exceptional artists and productions.

’This year we’re delighted to be welcoming the highly experienced adjudicator Jill Colby to the festival and honoured that His Excellency Sir Richard Gozney has kindly agreed to present the awards on the final evening.

’We’re also pleased to be welcoming back old favourites and previous winners Martello Productions from County Dublin; also Bejou Productions from Essex whose founder died in December. He came to the festival for more than 20 years so they are coming to perform as a celebration of his life.’

Tickets are available from the Gaiety Theatre box office, 600555, villagaiety.com. £13 adults or £10 students/concessions per evening. Season ticket £56 adults, £35 students.

In addition, festival adjudicator Jill Colby will be giving a talk at an Easter Monday lunch on Monday, April 22 at the Empress Hotel, Douglas.

Lunch costs £22 with the reception at noon and lunch served at 12.30pm.

For tickets, visit madf.im or call 627648.