THE Royal Shakespeare Theatre's last Stratford production this season is Shakespeare's rarely seen tragedy Titus Andronicus which previews from Friday.

Set against a decadent and disintegrating Roman Empire, the tale of vengeance and violence is described by director Bill Alexander as "the biggest blood bath in Shakespeare's canon."

The story involves an ageing Roman general who returns to Rome in triumph after his sixth victory over the Goths.

He brings with him their captured queen Tamora.

To avenge the death of his sons he sacrifices Tamora's son, Alarbus, but her revenge is to have her remaining sons rape Titus' daughter and cut out her tongue so that she is unable to name her assailants.

The title role is played by David Bradley, best known at the moment for his role as Filch the Caretaker in the phenomenally successful Harry Potter films.

The Stratford-based actor has played more than 60 roles for the RSC including Aguecheek in Twelfth Night, Mephistopheles in Doctor Faustus and Polonius in Hamlet.

Other cast members include Maureen Beattie as Tamora, Joe Dixon, Rob Wynn, Bradley Freegard, Shereen Ibrahim and Lynsey Beauchamp.

The production, suitable for those aged 14 and over, runs until November 7.

Tickets, £15-£40, are available from 0870 609 1110 or www.rsc.org.uk