An uproarious tale of derring-do and romance.

It’s July 1940, and after an aerial dog fight Pilot Officer Jack Absolute flies home to win the heart of his old flame, Lydia Languish. But Jack’s advances turn to anarchy when he meets up with his fellow officers and their girlfriends on the RAF airbase at Malaprop Hall. Based on Sheridan’s classic play The Rivals, with the famous characters of Mrs Malaprop and Sir Anthony Absolute, this hilarious new comedy was first performed with outstanding success at the National Theatre in 2022.

Book early for a pre-Christmas treat!

An amateur production by arrangement with Concord Theatrical Ltd. on behalf Samuel French Ltd.

Stamford Shoestring is the resident Theatre Company at the Arts Centre.

As the play is set in the 1940’s we would love to see audience members coming along in 1940’s outfits! This is a good, fun comedy show for the festive season and we are hoping some of our front of house will also be in costume. There will be 1940's songs being sung live in the theatre from 7:30pm so make sure you're seated by then to enjoy this pre-show music!