CREDITON Arts Centre’s actors embark on a local tour of Shakespeare’s popular comedy “Much Ado About Nothing” in June and July.

Two years ago, when the country was emerging from more than a year of pandemic lockdown, the company toured “The Merry Wives of Windsor” to four villages as well as performances in Newcombes Meadow park.

The same creative team – director Jack Robson, set designer Tim Salter, composer Stuart Toms and costume designer Lindy Yellowlees – are again working together with the actors to create a new version of the play.

The show was very well received and the villages were keen to repeat the experience this year.

As well as returning to Cheriton Fitzpaine (June 25), Newton St Cyres Arboretum (July 1/2), Sandford (July 7) and Colebrooke (July 8), “Much Ado About Nothing” will visit Lapford (June 18), Moretonhampstead (June 23) and Kennerleigh (July 9).

There will also be a performance on the afternoon of June 24 in the Holy Cross Church Car Park, as part of the church’s Crediton Arts Alive initiative, with refreshments available from The Turning Tides Project.

“Much Ado About Nothing” is regarded as a “problem” play due to its dark themes of deceit and betrayal, famous for the verbal jousting of lead characters Beatrice and Benedick, but it is also full of romance, wit, emotion and broad comedy.

This production will be a treat for adults and older children alike. Audiences are asked to take folding chairs and picnic blankets to sit on.

Tickets for all performances are on sale at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/creditonartscentre and in local village outlets.