AS the famous saying goes, the show must go on — and it certainly rang true for actors at the Octagon Theatre.

Last week Royal Shakespeare Company actress Charlotte Cornwell, who plays Dotty Otley in Noises Off, injured herself live onstage in front of a sell-out crowd.

It happened during a scene in the play where Charlotte — who starred in cult 1970s series Rock Follies — slammed a bottle down on the table which broke, cutting her finger.

The production was paused while stage management administered first aid.

The show resumed after a 10 minute delay with audience members praising staff for their response.

David Thacker, artistic director, said: "It's typical of Charlotte Cornwell that she would carry on without making a fuss when she sustained an injury during a performance — and it is a testament to the professionalism of our stage-management team that the incident was handled so professionally and expertly.

"People have rehearsed this show with severe back injuries, debilitating colds, no voices, high temperatures, sickness, bereavement and serious illness of close friends and family members.

"The cliché 'the show must go on' doesn't begin to capture the dedication and commitment of the acting profession and theatre professionals."

Noises Off, Frayn's best-known play, ironically focuses on the backstage shenanigans of a company in the throes of putting on a show.

Michael Frayn's award-winning comedy runs until July 4.