THE Civic Arts Centre and Theatre in Oswaldtwistle is starting an interesting new play reading group for theatre and drama fans.

Lauren Stirzaker, who works at the Civic, has formed the group.

She says: “I wanted to start a group that was not quite a book club – but a bit more interactive. It's for anyone who is interested in reading through scripts and discussing them. It's also a chance for enthusiasts to try reading different characters. There is no obligation and no line learning. It’s an ideal opportunity to get involved in amateur dramatics, even if you have never done anything like this before. It's also open to people who just want to listen to the plays. In fact, it is for anyone with an interest in acting, plays and reading.”

The 'Book Club's' aim is to discuss and choose plays to be read for each session and to cater to all theatre tastes. If it proves popular, Lauren hopes to create more opportunities for budding playwrights to test their work and hear it read out loud.

The group will be held on the first Monday of the month - with the potential to develop into a fortnightly or weekly session. There is also scope to add a separate daytime session at a later date.

It will meet for the first session on Monday, August 3 at 7.30pm – 9.30pm. There will be a small sub of £2 per person to cover the cost of scripts, photocopying, room hire and tea and coffee. Everyone is welcome to attend.

For more details contact Lauren at the Civic on 01254 398319.