THIS week sees the first performances of Crediton Arts Centre’s new production of “The Merry Wives of Windsor”.

The play is designed to be played in green spaces, and will be touring local villages as well as playing three shows in Crediton.

The first performance is at 4pm in Jack’s Acre, Cheriton Fitzpaine tomorrow, Saturday, June 26, followed by a performance at 3pm at Millennium Green, Sandford on Sunday, June 27.

“Rehearsals have been going well,” says director Jack Robson. “It is a complicated play, but the cast of 15 have worked really hard to make it accessible and clear, and to bring out the humour. It is a very funny play, and hopefully that will come across in our performances.”

The company has chosen to set the play in the 1920s, and the set, designed by local artist Tim Salter, is inspired by the work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Lindy Yellowlees has been influenced by styles of the period in making the costumes, and Stuart Toms’ music reflects his love of Django Reinhardt.

Subsequent performances are at Newcombe’s Meadow, Crediton (July 2-4), Newton St Cyres Arboretum (July 10 – Sold Out) and Colebrooke Church (July 11).

Tickets are £5 per head, with children under 12 free, and are available at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/creditonartscentre .