TALES of poverty and criminality do not usually raise a laugh but its that and more in Bolton this month.

A huge cast is currently fine tuning their lines, vocals and instruments for a musical extravaganza.

The Threepenny Opera may have its roots in 18th century literature but its players are learning that its message, and humour, are still very relevant to today.

Anna Wheatley and Eric Potts are among the cast of multi-talented actor-musicians appearing in the production as it is revived at the Octagon Theatre later this month.

Former Coronation Street actor Eric jokes: "It is poverty with laughs!

"It is a show which doesn't get done a huge amount but it is a great piece with a great story that's well told and some really powerful music.

"The politics, original script and production are actually still very relevant today. After going through the play, which is originally from the 20's, you think crikey that could have be been written yesterday!

"It may have political and moral content but I don't think that will put people off. They will find it entertaining!"

The original 1928 musical by Bertolt Brecht and Elisabeth Hauptmann has been given an update for the premiere on October 14.

Audiences will be introduced to a Britain which has found itself in a power vacuum following the death of the Queen and the current prepares for the coronation of Kind Charles III.

The absence of the head of the monarchy has allowed the criminals, corrupt bankers and opportunists in society to thrive.

Among them are the notorious criminal Macheath, alias Mack the Knife, played by David Birrell.

The Kingpin of crime has secretly married Polly Peachum, played by Anna Wheatley, and Eric takes on the role of her immoral father, Mr Peachum, who views the nuptials as a chance to move his way up from criminal number two to the top stop.

Eric said: "We thought it would be a nice notion to have Polly's roots in the north and she has moved down south.

"Sue Devaney is playing my wife and Anna's mum. I've known her many years and it's wonderful to see her and Anna, they are having an absolute ball together!"

Directed by David Thacker, all of the cast are talented actor-musicians and will be singing and playing instruments throughout the show.

They will also be joined by 20 Academy of Live and Recording Arts students, who will take part as musicians, singers and extras.

Anna, who won a Manchester Theatre Awards nomination for her part in The Family Way at the Octagon adds:

"The Octagon is my favourite place to work , I feel like I have come home when I come here.

"There's a huge cast playing instruments and they are jumping from acting to singing to playing. the rehearsal rooms are incredibly busy, it all sounds incredible and the stage setting is perfect.

"I'm not one of the people who is playing multiple instruments but I've been watching the people who are and they are extremely talented!"