A PLAY of three parts will be opening the season for one of Bolton's busiest amateur theatres.

Farnworth Little Theatre will be opening the doors of Neil Simon’s intriguing bitter-sweet comedy Plaza Suite.

The play is made up of three different stories connected by the fact that they are all set in the same location – Suite 719 of the Plaza Hotel in New York.

Director Paul Ward said: "I’ve needed a strong group of actors to carry it off and I really couldn’t be happier with my casting in all three acts.

"I’ve seen this play several times and enjoyed each version. I’m confident with the cast we have for our version that the audience will be in for an entertaining night out."

The first story sees Karen Nash, played by Joy Plowes, checking in to the suite in anticipation of spending her wedding anniversary with her husband, Richard Leigh as Sam, in the same room as their honeymoon 23 years ago.

However, Sam has a bombshell to drop.

Joy said: "Neil Simon is probably one of my favourite playwrights.

"I love his ability to combine genuine pathos with moments of pure comedy.”"

The second story follows a meeting between Hollywood movie producer Jesse Kiplinger, played by James Abercrombie, and his high school sweetheart Muriel Tate, played by Julie Hall.

James adds: "We’ve both had a ball doing this one. Paul's modern take on the play has been great fun to develop."

The final has married couple Roy and Norma Hubley, played by John Howarth and Carol Butler, trying to coax daughter Mimsey out of the suite's bathroom where she has locked herself on her wedding day.

John explains: "I have a particularly physical performance to master, which plays havoc with my knees, but the show must go on!"

Carole added: "It’s the funniest of the three I think!"

Plaza Suite runs from September 9 to 16 at 7.30 pm, with a matinee performance starting at 2 pm on September 16, at the Cross Street theatre.

To book tickets call the box office on 0845 643 0808 or visit farnworthlittletheatre.weebly.com.