W.C. Field's well-known theatrical saying, 'never work with animals or children', has been ignored by Wymondham Players for their next production.

Michael Palin's 'The Weekend', are targets for the sarcastic tongue of the leading character, world-weary Stephen Febble.

Monty Python fans will know that there was much dark humour in their work, and Michael Palin has brought that same quality to this beautifully-observed illustration of a quintessential 'grumpy old man', and his effect on the lives of those around him.

This wonderful comedy takes place over a forty-eight hour period at the home of Stephen and his patient wife Virginia. When he learns that the family, including their precocious teenager and the dog, are coming to visit, the weekend ahead seems bad enough for Stephen. But a series of revelations about his family, friends and the road to Thorpeness, together with an uninvited guest at dinner are all too much for Stephen who resorts, as always, to alcohol and sarcasm in equally generous measure.

This is a glorious examination of family values which is not only hugely funny but also at times very sad.

The Weekend opens on Wednesday November 14 at 7.45pm at Wymondham Central Hall and runs for four nights to Saturday, November 17.

Tickets are available online at www.wymondhamplayers.org.uk, at Geo Reeves, Market Street, Wymondham, or the box office, 01953 601198.