PLAYWRIGHT Sir Alan Ayckbourn has sent a letter of encouragement to Otley Little Theatre as it prepares to perform his Chorus of Disapproval.

In his letter, Ayckbourn writes to director Roger Thomas and all the cast: "Wishing you every success with the production and congratulations on reaching your diamond jubilee year."

The company, this year celebrating its 60th anniversary, has been busy for months rehearsing for its special anniversary production and has even entered it into the Wharfedale Festival of Theatre.

And under the competition's new rules, judges could be at any of the shows.

Joan Birkett, publicity officer, said: "In its new format, judges could be at any performance - this will keep the cast on their toes and it also means we would appreciate large audiences each evening to give us encouragement."

The show is a complicated comedy with more than 20 scenes and some operatic songs to learn.

"This complex comedy has meant the large cast having to rehearse more than usual to bring this play to its audiences," said Mrs Birkett.

She added for the company to win the Wharfedale festival in its anniversary year would be a great achievement.

"One more reason for people to come and see us is to see the style challenge type change to our local bard, Kevin Collier.

At the photo session we had to look twice at his total transformation and also his Welsh accent is truly amazing," added Mrs Birkett.

Chorus of Disapproval is due to run at Otley Civic Centre from Wednesday, February 23 to Saturday, February 26 from 7.30pm.

Tickets at £4.50 (£3) are available now from Waye and Son Travel, Kirkgate, Otley or on the door. Telephone (01943) 463740.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.