PORTLAND’S Royal Manor Theatre is coming back to life after its summer recess – and looking for new blood to swell its ranks.

Rehearsals are well under way for a Royal Manor Theatre Old Time Variety Show, which is a new venture for the historic theatre based in Fortuneswell on the island.

RMT spokeswoman Pat Wells said: “The show will feature many well-known faces, as well as some new talent, performing specifically for the show.

“Acts include some wonderful music played by local musicians, as well as some superb well-known sing-a-long songs.

“There are plenty of smiles to be had and many laughs too. Make sure you come along and enjoy the fun – a sense of humour is essential.”

Audiences are also being invited to turn up for the show in Victorian fancy dress, or just a hat from the time, to add to what promises to be a superb evening of fun.

The Royal Manor Theatre Old Time Variety Show will be performed at the Royal Manor Theatre on Friday and Saturday, October 14 and 15 at 7.30pm. Tickets will be available from RT Cards in Easton, and Danny’s in Fortuneswell from October 3. They will cost £8 for adults, £7 for seniors and £4 for children. Doors open each night at 7pm.

As always, you can also book tickets by calling the box office on 01305 860792, or online (no card details required) at: rmtcportland.co.uk The Royal Manor Theatre is a thriving community organisation that stages several productions each year and also has a popular youth group, the Playmakers.

Play readings for future productions are continuing on the first Wednesday of the month, at 7.30pm in the lower hall of the theatre building in Fortuneswell.

The Playmakers meet every Wednesday from 6pm to 7.15pm.

Anyone interested in joining the theatre, which is always son the look-out for new members, should call the box office on the number above.