A theatre group in Oldham is set to stage its most 'ambitious' show yet which features a much-loved local comedian who played a lead role in a Ken Loach film.

The StageRight Theatre Company, formerly known as The Broom Cupboard, offers workshops, acting classes, private tuitions and theatre shows for all the community to enjoy.

The company only recently found its permanent new home at The Scout Hut on Old Edge Lane in Royton last September - right in the nick of time for its big sell-out production, And Then There Were None, based on the novel by Agatha Christie.

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Now, the theatre company is preparing to set the stage again for its first original production, The Diner, written and directed by Natasha Clarke.

The play follows a murder mystery set inside a diner in a small town in the deep south of America.

When a gruesome murder is committed in a nearby town, those inside the diner begin to fear that the killer may be among them.

Local comedian, Venn Tracey, who is a member of the theatre group, is also tipped to take to the stage.

After many years on the comedy circuit performing stand-up shows across the globe, Venn played a lead role in Ken Loach's acclaimed film, The Navigators.

The comedian promoted the movie around the world, including the Cannes Film Festival and was invited to light Niagra Falls with fellow cast members.

While Venn announced his retirement from comedy after the pandemic, fans expressed disappointment that they would no longer be able to watch him perform.

However, Natasha added: "Now, they have an opportunity to see him take the stage once again.

"It will be our most ambitious yet, as we aim to provide a more unique experience for our theatre audience."

The Diner kicks off at The Scout Hut at 7pm this weekend, with shows scheduled on Friday (March 1), Saturday (March 2) and Sunday (March 3).

Standard seats start from £8 up to £12 for premium viewing and can be booked online by visiting www.stagerighttheatre.co.uk

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