THESPIANS will act out 750 years of Bolton's history in just 20 minutes - wearing dinner jackets and ball gowns!

The amateur actors and actresses are not setting some bizarre record. They will be commemorating the town's remarkable feats and heroes at a gala dinner and ball.

Rehearsals are under way for the ambitious production about Bolton's history, from medieval times to the present day, in two-minute playlets.

Actors from Bolton Little Theatre will give the performances, totalling 20 minutes, at the Mayor's Charity Ball at the Reebok Stadium on January 17.

The ball is one of the main celebrations marking the 750th anniversary of Bolton's 1253 Charter, which is regarded as the beginning of Bolton. The actors will dramatise nine aspects of Bolton's history, chosen by the Mayor, Cllr John Walsh. They range from Samuel Crompton, Lord Derby and Lord Leverhulme, to Wanderers and the opening of the Town Hall.

Michael Tatman, who has various roles at Bolton Little Theatre including that of set designer and script writer, said: "It is going to be in a news broadcast format and will be as light in tone as the subject matter will allow."

The playlets which will be performed between courses during the five-course dinner. They will be in the style of early radio broadcasts and five or six actors will take on the roles of news reporters and historical figures.

Mr Tatman said the players will stay in their evening wear as it would be a problem changing into different costumes.

The actors already have experience of acting in similar unusual settings. Mr Tatman said they had done dinner performances at the Last Drop Hotel in Bromley Cross.

Proceeds will go to the Mayor's charity, the Bolton Coronary Care Appeal. Fireworks, live music, dancing and a floral arts display are other attractions at the ball. Tickets are priced at £50 each. A table for 10 costs £450, and a VIP table for 10 is priced at £750. Call the Mayor's office on 01204 331057.