INTRIGUE and emotions will be revealed as six lives unravel on stage next week.

The Phoenix Theatre Society season concludes with a production of the thought -provoking Alan Ayckbourn comedy Private Fears in Public Places.

The modern tale of interwoven lives promises a mix of emotions, desperation and intrigue.

It is one of Ayckbourn’s most fascinating pieces and director Dave Eyre is pleased to be able to bring it to a Bolton stage.

He said: “Ayckbourn wrote it to be produced a little like a film, with scenes cut away quickly between characters in different parts of the stage, similarly to the way a film is produced.

“That’s made it very interesting to direct and has help to produce a very original style.”

The story opens with flat hunter Nicola seeking estate agent Stewart’s advice in finding her ideal new home, but frustrated by the lack of help from her fiancé Dan.

Adrift in his life and spending most of his time propping up a bar, Dan has skeletons in his closet which he is struggling to put behind him.

Joy Plowes plays Charlotte – a character with a shady past.

She said: “It’s a fascinating study of the interaction between the lives of six characters and how they affect each other.

“In fact it’s a bit of a magnifying glass on how we all live our lives – if only we could see it.”

John O’Connell plays estate agent Stewart.

He adds: “I don’t think I’ve ever been in a play quite like this. It certainly shines a spotlight on modern society as only Ayckbourn can.”

While it marks the end of Phoenix’s 2016-17, its new season is already set up with shows including Agatha Christie’s Dial ‘M’ for Murder, the farce Run for your Wife and bittersweet comedy Flamingoland.

Private Fears in Public Places runs from Wednesday to Saturday at Farnworth Little Theatre in Cross Street from 7.30pm, with a matinee performance on Saturday at 2.30pm. For tickets call the box office on 07749 261346.