A DEEPLY black comedy about marital breakdown and dead comedians and with a few custard pies thrown in (literally) may not appear to be the most obvious choice for an actor.

But for Robin Hooper, the opportunity to appear in Terry Johnson's Dead Funny was too good to miss.

"I had read the play and the reason I took the job was because of the part," said Robin, who avid TV watchers will recognise as being Malcolm in the award-winning cult comedy series The Office.

"This is a new play and the majority of new works really cater for young actors. When you are middle aged you usually get the chance to be a social worker, a doctor or a magistrate. In this play my character is a dream."

Dead Funny, currently running at Bolton's Octagon Theatre, is the story of a couple who have drifted apart.

The husband is a leading light in a society which celebrates the work of the great comedians. The wife has no interest in their antics.

After the death of Benny Hill, the society decides to hold a party to celebrate the life of this great comedian. From there things get out of hand.

Malcolm plays Brian, who has lived with his mother all his life and is, as one character puts it, "as camp as a row of tents."

"This is quite a tricky play for the audience," said Robin, "as they have to take quite a journey."

By that he means some pretty strong language and the sight of the leading man getting naked within the first 10 minutes.

"That requires a really brave actor. It's not something I would do but I think John Banks (the actor in question) handles it brilliantly."

The show has come to Bolton for a three-week run from York's Theatre Royal.

"This play, and my character in particular allows you to develop a fantastic relationship with the audience," said Robin, "It's interesting the see their reaction because at first they aren't quite sure what to expect.

"By the second act they are much more at home and it's just a joy to play. Every night though the reactions are different and that really is why you do it as an actor, to see what those reactions will be and to work with them."

In taking on this production, Malcolm ruled himself out of a new series of The Office, but he had no regrets.

"At the time it wasn't clear whether there would be another series," he said. "It was not until the show was repeated that it really gained its popularity and I had already made my mind up to take this part.

"Sometimes as an actor you can't wait around."

Malcolm has never played at The Octagon before but is thoroughly enjoying his time in Bolton.

"I love the Octagon," he said. "It is such an interesting theatre."

Once Dead Funny ends its run, Malcolm has no other parts imminent.

"I need some time to get round to writing a play of my own," he said.

Dead Funny runs until June 8. Box office: 01204 520661.