IN 1995 Crediton Arts Centre wondered whether there would be sufficient interest among actors and audience alike to perform an open air Shakespeare in the centre of town, then a scruffy car park alongside the old fire station. 

The initial production aimed to make King Henry IV Part One a community event, drawing its cast and musicians locally and set out to provide stimulating and accessible Shakespeare.  

Eighteen years later, this bi-annual event with large casts of actors and musicians, together with newly composed music has become a town tradition. 

More recently, in 2009 and 2011, the Shakespeare productions have taken place within a festival setting, to include performances by local primary schools, QE Academy, local choirs and Crediton Youth Theatre.

Here in 2013, as an integral part of Credfest, the Arts Centre is delighted to present one of Shakespeare's later works The Winter's Tale. 

Adapted from a Greek story, it tells of two societies, one is ruled by a king with unlimited powers; a king whose suspicions, though unfounded, of his wife's infidelity lead to devastating effects. 

The other community is a rural affair embracing friendship, shared joy and a love story that is only halted when power once again rears its head.

A host of Shakespeare's characters as local actors and musicians breathe life into the work of our most celebrated playwright. 

Performances in Crediton Town Square will be held from July 3 to 6, starting at 7.30pm. 

Tickets £8/£6 conc, are available from Olivia James Design, 27 High Street, Crediton or telephone 01363 777968.  Alternatively you can obtain them online from http://www.creditonartscentre.ticketsource.co.uk">www.creditonartscentre.ticketsource.co.uk .

Please note: these are outdoor performances, so do dress warmly.