A FAMOUS playwright will return to the Farnworth theatre where his career began to watch a performance of his most successful play.

Jim Cartwright has promised Farnworth Little Theatre he will attend one night's performance of their forthcoming production, Rise and Fall of Little Voice.

The play is currently in rehearsal but will running at the theatre in Cross Street, theatre from March 31.

Cartwright began his theatre education as a member of Farnworth Little Theatre's youth section.

John Howarth, who directs the BLT's production, said: "We have invited him and he has said he will be attending the opening night.

"He was a member here so it will be a trip down memory lane for him -- a chance to meet old friends.

"As the director of this production it is a little nerve-wracking, but I am hopeful he will enjoy the show."

Rise and Fall of Little Voice is a play which tracks the plight of a timid young woman who has the amazing ability to sing in the style of many of the great performers.

But she lives with her overbearing mother and is taken under the wing of an ageing and unscrupulous agent.

The play, written by Cartwright, was turned into a smash hit film of Academy Award status starring Jane Horrocks, Michael Caine, Brenda Blethyn and Ewan McGregor.

The Olivier and Evening Standard award winning playwright was a pupil at Harper Green School and a former writer in residence at Bolton Octagon.

His other work has included Road, Two and Prize Night.

John Howarth is directing the production. He won the trophy for best actor in last year's Greater Manchester Drama Federation Awards for his part in Farnworth Little Theatre's Someone Who'll Watch Over Me.

The cast includes Julie Waldron in the demanding role of Little Voice, Carol Butler as her mother Mari Hoff, Dave Eyre as theatrical agent Ray Say, Geoff Millard as Mr Boo, Chris Millard as Billy, Harvey Walton as the phone man, and Pam Higson as Sadie.