THE park will be alive . . . with the sound of Shakespeare.

Thomasson Park will be turned into the set of Twelfth Night this summer with the magnificent Mere Hall as a backdrop.

The cast of the Mimesis Theatre Company will take the tale of twins, love and disguises, around the park "promenade" style.

The production is the idea of manager at Mere Hall Barbara Smith.

"Mere Hall was given to the people of Bolton and we are trying to develop it for the community," she said.

While most people think of the grand historic hall as a place to get married, or a conference venue, Mrs Smith says it is still a community resource.

"We want the community to get involved with the play by developing promotional material and we are hoping to have an exhibition in the hall at the same time," said Mrs Smith.

The play is the project of Mike Coyne who also works at the Hall and he is buys working on sets -- Twelfth Night includes beach scenes -- and costumes.

And of course he is starting to cross his fingers early -- for good weather.

"The park really is an ideal location for the play, especially as there is a grand house in it and we can use the hall as a back drop. If it is a success we hope to repeat it," said Mrs Smith.

The Theatre Company is holding open auditions from noon to 4pm this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, at The Cottages, Thomasson Street, Bolton. Further information from Mike Coyne 01204 531177 or 01204 406644.

The play will be performed during Bolton's Festival Week -- August 23-30.