A KIDDERMINSTER performing arts group will prove they're more than a bunch of amateurs in their latest production.

Kidderminster Operatic and Dramatic Society (KODS) will stage the comedy A Bunch of Amateurs at The Rose Theatre, from Wednesday, September 18 to Saturday September 21.

The comedy, written by Nick Newman and Have I Got News For You star Ian Hislop, tells the story of fading Hollywood star, Jefferson Steele, who arrives in England to play King Lear in Stratford, only to find that this is not the birthplace of the Bard, but a sleepy Suffolk village.

Instead of Kenneth Branagh and Dame Judi Dench, the cast are a bunch of amateurs trying to save their theatre from developers. Jefferson’s strained relationship with those around him including his own daughter mirrors their production of King Lear.

The comedy was originally conceived as a film in 2008, starring Burt Reynolds, Sir Derek Jacobi and Samantha Bond, and was selected for the Royal Film Performance in November 2008.

Director Coral Dickinson said: “I feel privileged to be working with such a talented cast and can’t wait to get them in front of an audience.

“Not a rehearsal has gone by where we haven’t laughed until we cried. From witty one liners to a simple facial reaction - this script is funny on its own but to see it performed is truly hilarious, yet heartfelt and uplifiting”

Tickets for the the performances are available from The Rose Theatre box office, 01562 743745 or online at rosetheatre.co.uk

Showtime starts at 7.30pm.