A STARRY line-up of actors took time out from treading the boards to add some spice to a fund-raising event in Malvern.

More than £1,500 was raised at the late-night curry in aid of Malvern Theatres.

Audience members had the chance to enjoy a korma with the cast from The Real Thing, currently playing at the theatre.

The event, held this week in conjunction with the town's Anupam restaurant, saw actors including Neil Pearson, Marsha Fitzalan, Michael Lumsden, and Geraldine Alexander sharing a poppadom and an after-show chat with about 50 theatregoers.

It was organised to help raise cash towards £80,000 needed to buy equipment for the Grange Road venue, and to raise funds to further its education programme.

London-based Pearson, best known for roles in TV programmes such as Drop the Dead Donkey and Between the Lines, and films including Fever Pitch, answered questions from the diners and admitted that he didn't do much theatre but loved taking a play on tour.

"Part of the joy in touring is to go to different places and see different theatres," said the actor, who said that when working on stage he tried to imagine "playing for one person."

"This was a unique opportunity for supporters of the Malvern Theatres to gain access to Neil Pearson - one of this country's finest stage, film and TV actors," said Hilary Philpott of Malvern Theatres.

"They also had the opportunity to join Neil and the cast of The Real Thing in the elegant newly-refurbished Anupam restaurant, which generously sponsored a delicious Indian supper.

"The event raised more than £1,500 for the work of the Malvern Theatres."

More events are in the pipeline for the new season.