HOTELS and restaurants have been asked for advice and props for the latest production at Todmorden Hippodrome Theatre, which starts next week.

Todmorden Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society, which owns the theatre, is presenting Alan Ayckbourn's Time Of My Life, set inside a classy Italian restaurant.

Calvino's Restaurant has been built on the Hippodrome's main stage.

The restaurant is owned by Calvino but is run by five of his family members, all played by one actor, Richard Parkes, who has had to develop five different characters.

The play revolves around the 50th birthday celebrations of Laura Stratton.

But in true Ayckbourn style, the family gathering turns into something much more.

Ian Stansfield, a well-known face around the Hippodrome, is directing Time Of My Life. He has travelled backwards and forwards to Australia for the past 26 years and has performed and directed in many countries but this is the first time he has directed in his home town.

Last year he held a responsible position on the road crew for the Olympics. Time Of My Life is at Todmorden Hippodrome Theatre from Wednesday to Saturday, June 13-16.

Tickets from Todmorden Tourist Information Centre (tel 01706 818181). Credit card bookings can also be taken. Or call Sylvia Sutcliffe on 01706 813655.

Tickets are priced at £3 for all seating on the opening night and £4.50 for adults and £3 for under 16s the rest of the week.