ULVERSTON Outsiders next play is a comedy that's so funny it's had the cast in stitches like never before.

Penned in 1991 by American playwright Paul Rudnick, I Hate Hamlet is apparently a real side splitter, so comical that Outsiders secretary John Brice recalls that the first read through produced more laughter from the cast than anyone could previously remember.

For those who want a good laugh they should pop along to the Coronation Hall from Wednesday-Saturday, November 23-26 to see the show, which tells of discontented television actor, Andrew Rally, whose been offered the opportunity to play Hamlet onstage in New York's Central Park. But there’s one problem: he hates Hamlet. When his agent, Lillian Troy, reminisces about her romance with John Barrymore, the famous actor who once played Hamlet, they decide to have a seance to bring him back. Coincidentally, Andrew also lives in the apartment that once belonged to Barrymore.

However, Andrew's dilemma deepens with the entrance of Barrymore’s ghost, who arrives intoxicated and in full costume to the apartment that once was his. The contrast between the two actors leads to a wildly funny duel over women, art, success, duty, television - and the apartment.

Andrew is played by Outsiders stalwart Adam Atkinson and his girlfriend Deirdre by UO newcomer Hannah Mitchell. Hannah is no stranger to the local stage, having been a member of Furness Youth Theatre for five years and a member of Ulverston Amateur Operatic Society. She has also worked as an entertainer both in the UK and in France as well as teaching drama at a youth camp in the USA.

John Barrymore is played by Rob O'Hara who many will remember as Basil Fawlty in Fawlty Towers, and Colin Kendall returns as Gary Kefkowitz. Barbara Springthorpe plays Lilian Troy and Nicky Diggle returns as real estate agent Felicia Dantine.

In the director's chair is Tony Smith whose had his sights set on directing the play for many years.

Box office 01229-587140.

Open 10am-4pm, Monday-Friday; 10am-2pm, Saturdays.