THERE’S a whiff of drama in the air this weekend as some top theatrics come to West Dorset courtesy of some of the best performers currently on the circuit.

Cornish actor Bec Applebee is at Dorchester Arts centre tonight with her roistering show called Oh Mary!

This is a one-woman performance based on the incredible life story of Mary Bryant - Cornish highway woman, convict, mother and maritime adventurer.

It is a swashbuckling true story of transportation, love, escape, tragedy and redemption that spanned the world between Cornwall and Australia.

Bec said: “It’s the most fabulous story, one of gritty determination but also great sadness and tragedy.

“It’s amazing just how much is known about Mary.

“Over here, she isn’t really heard of much, but in Australia her history is taught in schools and they have a totally different approach to her.”

Today’s show starts at 8pm in Dorchester Arts Centre, The Grove and tickets are £8 plus concessions.

Call 01305 266926 for bookings and full details.

Bristol Old Vic Theatre School returns to Bridport tomorrow night with their adaptation of that bawdy joy Tom Jones.

Expelled from Mr Allworthy’s country estate for his wild temper and sexual conquests, the good-hearted foundling Tom Jones loses his money, joins the army and pursues his beloved across Britain to London, where he becomes a kept lover.

Our hero’s actions were, in 1749, as shocking as they are funny today and joyously relevant to a modern day audience.

The performance is part of the Old Vic school’s annual visit to the West Country and as well as offering the chance to see some top-notch performances, it allows audiences to glimpse the big stage and screen stars of the future.

The show is at Bridport Arts Centre in South Street and tickets are £12 plus concessions from the box office on 01308 424204. Also in Bridport, the refurbed Lyric Theatre opens its doors to welcome in the folk group Heron.

Described as ‘simple, pastoral, folk-rock, with a gentle, English summer’s day feel’, the band will be playing their first gig for 30 years and Lyric staff are delighted to have them on board.

Heron will be supported by Portico and tickets are £10 from Bridport Music and The Bookshop in South Street, Bridport and Fruits of The Earth in Victoria Grove, Bridport and on the door. Doors and bar open at 7.30pm.

Email heron@relaxx.co.uk for more information.