IS Agoraphobia, a fear of crowds, public places, or open areas, a suitable subject for a play at Malvern Theatres?

Sue Townsend author of Adrian Mole, saw the dramatic possibilities back in 1982, and now the Malvern Theatre Players will perform her play, "Bazaar and Rummage", at the Coach House venue, this September.

A spokesman said: "First presented at the Royal Court in 1982, the play centres on three severely agoraphobic women who leave their houses for the first time in years, and make it to a jumble sale.

"The sale has been organized by their social workers: Fliss and Gwenda. As the afternoon progresses, the distinction between them and the anxious people they are supposed to be looking after, becomes less and less clear."

But this will be a rummaging good production with a difference.

The spokesman added: "Bring your pennies; you may be able to pick up a bargain. In addition to inviting you to enjoy the performance, the Players will offer the opportunity to visit their own "live" rummage sale in the interval. All proceeds of the sale will be donated to Malvern's mental health charity: Positive Thoughts."

Sue Townsend wrote the play with her usual wry sense of humour, but also with sympathy and understanding.

The spokesman added: "Although a comedy, at no point is the humour at the expense of people who struggle with the issues presented."

Directed by Gill Young, Bazaar and Rummage will be performed at The Coach House from Monday September 12 to Saturday September 17 at 7.30pm each evening, with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

Tickets from The Malvern Theatres box office, on 01684 892277.