BILL Alexander directs two great plays by William Shakespeare at the Birmingham Rep from September 1 to October 7, prior to a major national tour.

The first is Twelfth Night, a joyous romantic comedy, staring Rakie Ayola as the beautiful Viola and Gerald Murphy as Malvolio. From September 18 Richard McCabe reprises his powerful performance as the tortured Prince of Denmark in Hamlet.

The acting company for both productions also includes Pal Aron, David Hargreaves, Andy Hockley, Anna Nicholas, Steve O'Neill, John Quentin and Adam Smethurst.

Tickets from the box office on 0121 236 4455.