THIS year is set to be an exceptionally busy one for members of Royal Manor Theatre on Portland.

As well as their latest double-production show, which is running next week from March 20 to March 24, the amateur drama club has a packed 12 months ahead, with a range of shows scheduled in.

Next week’s performance is made up of the two short plays that the theatre entered in this year’s All England Theatre festival. The productions are Albert by Eileen White, and When the Bough Breaks by Gwyn Clark.

In the production of Albert, Margaret Frost was nominated for best actress, whilst the other production – When the Bough Breaks, was nominated for best costume.

RMT secretary Mike Deadman said: “Putting on a superb show is what we do best, whether it’s plays you enjoy, or a musical concert, we have it all.

“On March 30 we’ll have BBC Radio Solent’s Richard Cartridge, performing in the Richard Cartridge Band.

“In May, we’ll be bringing a superb production to the stage called My Brilliant Divorce and our future acting strength, The Playmakers, will also be performing in Dracula this July.

“ABBA sensation will be making their presence felt on Portland on August 11. Tickets are on sale now.”

Performances of Albert and When the Bough Breaks are at 7.30pm from March 20 to 24. Tickets are available from Danny’s in Fortuneswell, or R.T Cards in Easton, online at rmtcportland.co.uk, or by calling 01305 860792.