Sheringham Little Theatre is marking its 55th anniversary season, which begins next month, by producing five of its best-ever plays and inviting three of its celebrity patrons to return to the theatre in directorial roles.

They are Desmond Barrit, who is known for his roles with the Royal Shakespeare Company and on the West End stage, Nicky Henson, also a member of the RSC and known for TV work, including playing Jack Edwards in EastEnders, and Peter Craze, well-known for his TV roles, especially in Doctor Who.

The season opens on Tuesday, July 21 with Willy Russell's famous comedy Educating Rita, directed by Desmond Barrit. Starring Paul Lavers, also known as Anglia Television's 'Mr Midnight,' this runs until Tuesday July 28.

On Thursday July 30 mystery thriller The Late Edwina Black, directed by Warren Catherine, opens and runs until Wednesday August 5.

This is followed by Alan Ayckbourn's Bedroom Farce, which runs from Friday August 7 to Tuesday August 18 and is directed by Nicky Henson.

Comedy Perfect Wedding, directed by Simon Thompson, then runs from Wednesday August 20 to Saturday August 29.

The season will close with Noel Coward's classic comedy Private Lives, which runs from Tuesday September 1 to Saturday September 5, and will be directed by Peter Craze.

'We are so proud to be keeping the tradition of rep alive and this anniversary season will be more exciting than ever,' said little theatre director Debbie Thompson.

For more information or to book tickets call 01263 822347 or visit www.sheringhamittletheatre.com