THE tense psychological drama John Pielmeier’s ‘Agnes Of God’ will be brought to the stage by Bolton Little Theatre this week.

Based on real life events, the play is set in 1976 in New York and is about a novice nun giving birth in her convent cell insisting that the child was the result of a virgin conception.

Pielmeier’s gripping adaptation of those events takes the audience through the investigation into the incident by the court appointed psychiatrist looking for the truth and the Mother Superior who wants to protect the young "Agnes".

Glenn Robinson directs two of the theatre company's most experienced actresses — June Grice and Carol Butler — and newcomer Emma Toms in this powerful piece of theatre. .

"Although set in a world of religion and faith, it isn’t really just about those things alone," said Glenn, "it’s about the investigation of a serious crime and the battle between two strong willed women trying to do what they think best."

The title of the play itself is intended as a pun on the Latin phrase "Agnus Dei" or "Lamb of God" which Christians may recognise as a prayer within the normal Sunday church service, although Agnes’ Mother Superior is determined that she will not become the sacrificial lamb of the prayer.

June plays the psychiatrist Dr Livingstone who is sent to the convent to investigate the baby’s death and to determine Agnes’ sanity.

She said: "It’s a ‘play of the mind’ really exploring the truth behind ‘Agnes’ claims — and she is open to the notion that someone other than ‘Agnes’ may have killed the baby and is seeking an alternative logical explanation."

Carol Butler plays Mother Miriam Ruth the Mother Superior of the convent.

She said: "Ultimately she’s highly protective of Agnes and fears destroying her fragile spirit saying at one point 'I don’t want that mind cut open’."

Newcomer Emma plays the title role.

"I couldn’t hope for a better introduction to Bolton Little Theatre,” said Emma, "and I’ve really enjoyed playing the innocent Agnes — who manages to become pregnant in a convent devoid of men."

Glenn added: "I’ve been very fortunate to have such excellent actresses for this production, not least in the beautiful voice of Emma. Hearing her sing Ave Maria, and Pie Jesu is worth the ticket money on its own."

Agnes Of God runs from Saturday, May 12 – May 19 including a matinee on Saturday at 7.30.

Call the box office on 01204 524469 or book on line via the BLT website www.boltonlittletheatre.co.uk