A NEW comedy by prolific playwright Alan Ayckbourn, Sugar Daddies, opens at Malvern's Festival Theatre on Tuesday.

Described as "a cautionary comedy of dark intentions" the play, which is also directed by the author, is Ayckbourn's 64th and on tour after a sell-out run at the Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough.

The play stars Alison Pargeter as Sasha, a good Samaritan who gets more than she bargains for, when she comes to the aid of Father Christmas.

The cast also features Terence Booth, Anna Brecon, Rex Garner and Eliza Hunt. It runs until February 7 with evening performances at 8pm and Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm. Tickets, £10-£18 are available from the box office on 01684 892277 or at:

www.malvern-theatres.co.uk