THOMAS Hardy may not seem like the most obvious source of festive cheer.

The famous Dorchester writer may have a reputation for offering more melancholy than mirth in his works, but one of his more uplifting novels is being brought to the stage.

The county town's Corn Exchange will host a series of six performances of Hardy's Under the Greenwood Tree from Thursday, December 1 to Sunday, December 4.

The adaptation from the New Hardy Players will be staged at the same venue where is was first dramatised by the original Hardy Players more than 100 years ago.

The script has been adapted by actor Jack Shepherd and the production is being co-directed by Tim Laycock and Emma Hill.

Tim said the cast features more than 40 performers and those involved have been working on the production for more than a year.

Music is a major part of the story, with eight musicians involved in the show under the direction of Alastair Simpson.

Chairman of the New Hardy Players said the performance promised to be lively and he hoped to recreate the experience audiences encountered when they first saw Hardy's work stage at the same venue.

He said: "We are going to try and make it feel as though you have stepped through the door into a different time."

The original performance in 1910 was a major occasion as it also saw Hardy handed the Freedom of Dorchester, with many local dignitaries present.

The modern day take on the book by the New Hardy Players also seems to be proving popular with all six shows sold out.

Tim said one of the reasons Under the Greenwood Tree was so popular was because it was a celebration of community.

He said: "It's distinctly Dorchester.

"It's family friendly and full of stories and memories from the Hardy family and friends, it's very autobiographical."

Andy added: "It's all about the community and I think that's something very relevant to Dorchester now."

Tim added that there was very much a festive feel to the show, with the whole first half based on Christmas celebrations.

Tim said that the production had been developed in partnership with Dorchester Arts and he was grateful for all the help and support they had received from them.

For more information about the production visit dorchesterarts.org.uk or call 01305 266926.

CONTACT ME

t: 01305 269801

e: harry.hogger

@dorsetecho.co.uk

twitter: @DorsetEchoHarry