ONE of the area's most respected theatre companies is bringing to life the classic Shakespearian tale of Romeo and Juliet.

C'est Tous theatre company, based in Leyland's picturesque Worden Park, is renowned across Preston and South Ribble for its spectacular Shakespeare productions.

And to mark The Bard's birthday, on Tuesday, April 23, C'est Tous is performing one of his most famous plays at its two venues, Worden Park's Marsden Theatre and Rufford Old Hall, near Chorley.

And regular theatre-goers will recognise many of the cast members.

Andrew Crofts, who plays star-crossed lover Romeo, trained with the group's youth theatre for seven years.

The talented young actor has even appeared on the Granada TV programme North and South, and children's television programme Big Meg Little Meg. He returns to Worden Park after six months teaching drama and English to students in Nepal.

While Andrea Fisher, who plays Juliet, has just returned home after six months touring with a play on teenage pregnancy. The spectacular production features colourful costumes and incredible, choreographed sword fights, complete with real weapons made by Worden Park's resident blacksmith.

Christine Appleby of C'est Tous said: "Every time we do it there are so many ways to interpret it. This time we've got lots of fabulous and really spectacular sword plays. We open it with a big choreographed sword fight.

"Every year we put on Romeo and Juliet because everyone enjoys it so much. It's one of the most popular plays -- we've already sold out for a couple of performances. But the play's suitable for all ages."

Romeo and Juliet runs for the next two weeks. For more information and tickets call 431300.