HELMSLEY Arts Centre's resident performers, The 1812 Theatre Company present their latest production in the intimacy of the Studio Bar this weekend, with a first-rate American comedy.

Last of the Red Hot Lovers is a poignant New York comedy written in 1969 by Neil Simon - author of other gems such as The Odd Couple and Barefoot in the Park.

It is the story of middle-aged, married, overweight fish-restaurant owner Barney, who wants to join the sexual revolution before its too late. So he arranges assignations in his mother's apartment with three women: neurotic Elaine, who he has picked up in his restaurant; nightclub singer Bobbi, who turns out to be "too kooky by half" and tells a crazy life story; and depressed Jeanette, who happens to be married to Barney's best friend.

Each encounter goes wrong in a different way, both comic and sad. At the end of a painful journey, Barney realises he's better off with the life - and wife Thelma - he already has.

The production is directed by Martin Vander Weyer, who also plays Barney. 1812 stalwarts Jane Buckle and Lynn Goslin play Elaine and Jeannette respectively, and newcomer Sophie Brown. who is a teacher at Ampleforth St Martin’s prep school, joins the company to play Bobbi.

Martin said: “Last of the Red Hot Lovers is probably the funniest play I’ve ever done with the 1812. I love Neil Simon’s wit. But it’s also a play with a kind heart, and its intimate setting makes it ideal for our ‘studio theatre’ format in the Arts Centre bar."

Last of the Red Hot Lovers is at Helmsley Arts Centre, from Thursday, February 25 to Sunday February 28, at 7.30pm. The play will also be touring at the White Lodge Hotel, Filey, on March 2 and 3, and the Blacksmiths Inn, Hartoft, on March 4.

For more information phone the the box office on 01439 771700.