DORCHESTER Drama returns to the Bull's Head in Fordington tonight for their summer alfresco production.

This year's performance in the pub's garden is made up of two one-act comedies.

Thermal Underwear by Andrew Davies is the story of a ruby wedding anniversary party that goes disastrously wrong.

Tensions surface, although the parents - whose anniversary it is - remain apparently blissfully unaware of the carnage developing around them.

Ann Ottaway and John Ramsden play the parents with Dee Thorne their daughter and Steven Twinn their son. Son-in-law Bob is played by Kevin Morris and their friend, Shirley, by Angie Ramsden.

Angie and Dee also take roles in the second play, The Droitwich Discovery by Nick Warburton.

A hilarious play, it traces the progress of a drama group who embark on a Shakespearean tour, but who end up in Droitwich and get more than they bargained for.

Also involved are Hilary Twinn and Trevor Williams as part of the group, while Lee Stroud plays Mrs Craddock, the landlady, and David Lucas, her unusual guest.

Director Trevor Williams said: "If Thermal Underwear is subtle and understated, then The Droitwich Discovery is painted with much broader strokes, but they should both provide plenty of laughs for the audience.

"If it's wet then there is always the skittle alley for shelter - not so much Theatre in the Round - more like Theatre in the Long!"

Alfresco runs from tonight until Saturday, July 14 with performances starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £8 on the door or £7 in advance from Words Etcetera, Cornhill, Dorchester or by telephone from Ann Ottaway on 01305 772187.