A collaboration between Spaniel in the Works Theatre Company and the Churches Conservation Trust will bring theatre performances to St. Swithun’s Church in Worcester.

On Wednesday August 24, the company will be presenting two shows.

At 12.30 p.m. Bill Jones will present "Graveside Manner" as his alter ego, Miserable Malcolm the poet.

A spokesman said: "In a one man show that’s positively overflowing with gloom, Miserable Malcolm attempts to entertain us with poems about death and despair. "Malcolm has recently embarked on a Tour of Misery, visiting some of the happiest towns in Britain and hopes to bring the mood in Worcester down a bit. This is definitely a show to see."

On the evening of August 24th, the bogus leading art critics, Bernard Beardsley and Beatrice Botticelli, will present Bernard and Beatrice’s Complete Guide To Modern Art.

The spokesman said: "Can you tell your Arp from your Miro? Does the concept of conceptual art confuse you? What do you deduce from Dada and Dali? What does it all mean?

"This lively funny, sometimes irreverent show answers these and other questions on a journey through the history of modern art from Duchamps urinal to Damien's cow finishing with the creation of a work of art in five minutes."

This performance starts at 7.30 p.m.

On Saturday August 27, at 7.00 p.m. Spaniel in the Works will present The Final Journey of Edward Wilson.

The spokesman added: "This is an emotional performance charting the life of Edward Wilson, explorer, artist and naturalist who journeyed with Scott to the Antarctic and died with him there.

"Cheltenham born Edward Wilson, was also a caring and religious man and the play explores all facets of his character, not only as an enthusiastic man of science and highly skilled wildlife artist but also as the peacemaker and problem solver on the expeditions. After the hour long performance there will be a chance to see projections of some of the remarkable paintings and sketches that Wilson made."

This is the start of a collaboration between the Stroud based theatre company and the Churches Conservation Trust to bring theatre to historic church buildings.

“It is great to be performing these shows in these marvellous historic buildings,” said director John Bassett “Saint Swithun’s is a fantastic space for performance. Other performances are planned for later in the year including an exciting community project.”

Tickets and further information from Worcester Tourist Information or by phoning 01905 726311 or online at www.spanielworks.co.uk