AFTER nearly three years 'being dark', the site of the Chatsworth Centre opens its doors to drama once again.

Thanks to the hard work of a team of volunteers, the multi-use Devonshire Suite has been transformed into a studio theatre seating some 90 patrons.

Riverside Drama Company will be the first group to put on a dramatic production in the new theatre that was completely professionally re-floored this week, thanks to generous assistance from Michael's Wood Floors, of Sandiacre.

Riverside will be performing three one-act plays in the newly-refurbished Devonshire Studio Theatre at Chatsworth Centre, West Gate, Long Eaton, from Thursday, July 27 to Saturday, July 29, at 7.30pm.

The three plays are 'Man of Letters' by Tim Firth. Frank, a well-worn northerner with aspirations to write spy thrillers, plots of which he acts out when alone, has erected signs for a commercial letterer for 25 years.

On a ledge of his boss's building, assisted by trainee Ellen, he attempts to spell 'Forshaw', a task that proves to be more problematic that it would seem.

Featuring Martin Holtom as Frank, and newcomer Hannah Coleman as Ellen, the play is directed by Sylvia Holmes.

The second is 'Chinamen' by Michael Frayn. Jo and Stephen are having their friends round for dinner, which means Nicholas and Jay with Simon and Kay, John and Laura (or is it Dick and Nora?) and, of course, Barney and Bee.

But Barney and Bee are no longer together, so Jo has invited Bee's new partner, Alex. Unfortunately, Stephen wasn't listening and has invited Barney.

Michael Frayn's comedy is a mad dash through the living rooms, kitchens and dining rooms of suburbia, as the hosts play parts to keep their guests apart.

Featuring Paul Norris as Stephen/Barney and another newcomer, Sarah Dagley as Jo/Bee/Alex, the play is directed Liz Turner.

The third play is 'The Help Committee Try Again' by Peter Assinder. A farcical sketch in one act, the play features Moya Magee as Mrs Prout, Claire Smith as Mrs Wix, Emjay Sadler as Mrs Purbright, Maggie Millington as the vicar's wife and Rob Osmond as the ghost. Pat Clarke directs.

Tickets, priced at £5 or £3.50 for concessions, are available from members of the cast, by calling 0115 917 0327 or by visiting the Chatsworth Centre Saturday coffee morning between 10am and 12 noon.
For more information see www.riversidedrama.com