A NEW English version of Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House plays at Worcester's Swan Theatre from tomorrow.

Set in Norway in the late 1870s, the play has been newly adapted and directed by Brian J Burton, a prolific local playwright.

Currently chairman of the Swan Theatre Company, he describes the writing of the new version, one of his favourite plays, as "a labour of love".

The result is "an exciting and thought-provoking story of marriage and blackmail, which still retains the atmosphere of the period".

The classic play explores the relationship between Torvald Helmer and his "doll" wife Nora as his reputation and her love for him are threatened by blackmail and scandal.

Celinda Myatt plays the mammoth role of Nora, one of the longest in theatre. She previously played the part of Elvira in Blithe Spirit.

Playing opposite her will be Simon Atkins, head of drama at The Kings School in Worcester. By coincidence he is currently teaching A Dolls House at school - but a different version.

Other cast members include John Horton as the blackmailer, Frank Welbourne as Dr Rank, Elaine Innes as Mrs Linde and Pauline Beale and Audrey Holt.

Tickets for the production, which runs until October 25, are £8 (concessions £7) from Huntingdon Hall box office on 01905 611427.