THE Swan Theatre Amateur Company is to present a curious play about an handkerchief, as part of the Worcester Festival.

With a nod to the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death, the STACs will perform "Desdemona" by Paul Vogel in the Vesta Tilley Studio at the Swan from Tuesday August 23 to Saturday August 27, from 7.45pm.

A spokesman said: "The play explores the characters of Desdemona, Emilia and Bianca from Shakespeare's "Othello", but not as we know them.

"Desdemona is not necessarily as innocent as Shakespeare would have us believe. Emilia’s views on the world and its dubious morals are a reflection of her strong religious beliefs. Bianca takes great pride in her work as the owner of a busy brothel but dreams of a different life."

The spokesman added: "Paula Vogel has taken an alternative view of these three women to write a lively and bawdy comedy that also reflects on some of the darker aspects of relationships between women and their men, which are still relevant today.

"The play includes adult content and strong language."

Tickets priced are available through Worcester Live Box Office: 01905 611427 and at The Swan Theatre, from 45 minutes before the start of each performance for that night’s performance, if still available.