QUEEN Katherine School's annual key stage three production sees the return of a famed trio of swashbuckling swordsmen.

The Three Musketeers and the Half-Wit Prince is penned by the Kendal school's drama teacher Jon Linaker.

"The play is, shall we say, loosely based on historical fact and focuses on the rivalry between the two sons of Charles 1st to succeed him to the English throne," explains Jon, whose cannon of theatrical works also includes Pirates of the Crabby Bean, Star Quest - The Revenge of the Klangers, Stan Roper's Dracula and The Kendal Pals, a play, which marked the centenary of the First World War.

He added: "In a bid to win his father’s favour the rather dim, moon-faced Prince Charlie sets out on a mission to France, along with his faithful Equerry Dartington, to attempt to trick the hostile French King into signing a peace treaty. His journey brings him into close quarters with the legendary musketeers, King Louis, and the infamous Queen Anne, who signals the end for poor Parisians with a chilling drop of her handkerchief.

"Tomfoolery ensues with hilarious results."

The Three Musketeers and the Half-Wit Prince runs from Thursday-Saturday, February 2-4 (7pm) in the QKS upper school hall.

Tickets are available from QKS reception or at the door on the night. Doors open from 6.30pm.