A MODERN day farce promises to have its audience rolling in the aisles at a Northwich theatre this month and helping a charity Dig Deep at the same time.

Harlequin Players will perform Kindly Leave the Stage, a comedy about marriage, friendship and what is real.

Written by John Chapman, who was part of the Are You Being Served writing team, the play centres on Rupert and Sarah whose marriage is on the rocks.

They are hosting a dinner party for their friends Charles and Madge, who are both lawyers and have agreed to handle the divorce.

As the story unfolds, complications arise when Edward, an ageing Shakespearean actor, becomes blissfully aware that the play has switched from art to life.

Directed by Malcolm Barker the play features a cast of Harlequin regulars.

These include Matt Bird, who will be remembered for his hilarious role in 'The Noble Spaniard', Keri Maria Spellman, one of the leading actresses in the popular 'Prime Directive', Beth Barlow, another great comedy actress who appeared in 'The Rise and Fall of Little Voice', and played a dual role in the WW1 play 'Remember Them'.

The cast also features Caroline Young, Tina Wyatt, Stephen Hoskins and Matthew Jones.

Performances are 7.45pm from Wednesday, February 18, to Saturday, February 21.

The performance on Tuesday, February 17, is in aid of The Joshua Tree, which has launched its Dig Deep campaign to raise £250,000.

It will use the money to build a support centre for children with life threatening illnesses and their families.

Peter Smith, from the charity, said: "We’d love to fill the theatre so please come if you can and invite friends, family and fellow fundraisers to join us for a great night and what looks to be a great performance with a superb local cast."

For charity night tickets, priced £10, ring The Joshua Tree on 01606 331858.

For tickets for the other performances visit harlequinplayers.com or ring 01606 246831.