AS the nation sits on the edge of its seat as EastEnders' thugs Dan Sullivan and Phil Mitchell go head-to-head, a former star of the soap will be getting involved with a hard man of Biblical proportions.

Troy Titus-Adams, better known as Nina Harris, the barmaid with a grubby secret, is to star as Mary Magdalene in an epic production telling the story of Saul on the road to Damascus which is coming Cheltenham next week.

Set in a big top, the show - called Strange Kind of Hero - provides a mix of West End actors, live rock music and local choirs, with state of the art sound and lighting to provide an explosive performance.

But the actress said although the show tells the religious parable of Saul - the unpleasant piece of work who mends his ways after an impromptu meeting with God - it wasn't just for the devout.

"Although it's religious it's also enjoyable for those who aren't particularly religious," said the actress.

"Whereas Joseph tells a Biblical story in a way which is great fun with lots of colour, this is just a very powerful yet enjoyable play which looks at people being crucified - something that happens everyday across the world.

"Whatever your religion, it's a great show."

The performance, which will take place at Cheltenham Racecourse, has been produced by Good Company (Paul Productions) Ltd in association with the town's Everyman Theatre and Greenbelt Festival.

But the part is the latest in a busy schedule for Titus-Adams since leaving EastEnders, something she says she is pleased to have been part of.

"I'm thankful to EastEnders for establishing me, but since leaving I've been having a ball. I've been in a number of different projects which is great because I love the art of acting.

"I enjoy playing lots of different characters and want to put the art of acting before money.

"Therefore I'm happy to do small and big venues as well as television."

For more information on the show, which runs between Friday, August 24, and Sunday September 2, contact the Everyman Theatre's box office on 01242 572573.