A theatre company will be bringing its adaptation of a classic supernatural thriller to Weymouth this February.

M. R. James’ 1911 short story Casting the Runes will be brought to life on stage by touring theatre company Box Tale Soup.

It will be performed by Noel Byrne and Antonia Christophers and this version will feature puppetry and an original music composed by Dan Melrose.

The play follows the story of Edward Dunning, an academic expert in the occult, whose life takes a dark turn when he is passed a mysterious strip of paper covered in runic lettering.

Audiences following his character as he attempts to uncover the secret of the runes before a dark presence at his heels catches up with him.

Box Tale Soup is an award-winning theatre company that has previously embarked on national and international tours. Its productions feature a mix of multiple theatre disciplines including puppetry, physical theatre, and original music.

Dorset Echo: Casting the Runes Publicity shot of Noel Byrne

Speaking of James’ original novel and adapting it for the stage, Noel Byrne, said: “Theatre is a great medium for a story like this because it gives you a sense of presence and immediacy that you just don’t get from anything else - you’re there, the story is unfolding live, right in front of you, you’re sharing it with other people, and that all heightens the experience of a story like Casting the Runes.

“These stories endure because the themes are still relevant, and Casting the Runes has a lot to say about arrogance and hubris, the dangers of not being open to other ideas.”

Casting the Runes will be performed at The Bay Theatre at Weymouth College on Wednesday, February 28 from 7.30pm. This production is suitable for those aged 12+. 

Tickets can be purchased on The Bay Theatre's ticket page: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/thebaytheatre