Fairlie Village Hall will be showcasing live theatre with a gothic version of 'Barnaby Rudge' by Charles Dickens in October.

It is part of an Ayr Gaiety venture - the Ayrshire Rural Touring Network, funded by the Ayrshire LEADER. The aim of the project is to take live performances to small, rural venues, and Fairlie Village Hall is the only venue in North Ayrshire to have been included in the programme.

On 19th October, Fairlie will host the Northumberland Theatre Company, who are touring this autumn with their Gothic adaptation of “Barnaby Rudge” by Charles Dickens. Adapted by Stewart Howson, the story focuses on Barnaby, a young man drawn into the Gordon Riots of the late 18th century, and, with its high drama, strange secrets and ghostly doublings, the tale is a powerful blend of historical realism and “grotesque” melodrama.

Five actors will take the show on the road, including a trainee actor and musician, Craig Fairbairn from Newcastle. Gillian Hambleton, Artistic Director of the Northumberland Theatre Company, said, “Our remit is to take imaginative and accessible theatre to rural venues, and also give the next generation of theatre performers a chance to hone their craft through our trainee scheme.“

Elaine Campbell of Fairlie Community Association said, “We’re delighted to be involved in this new venture, and excited to be able to offer something completely new at Fairlie Village Hall. A variety of shows are being planned by the Ayrshire Rural Touring Network for next year – music, comedy, drama, dance, children’s theatre and more – and we hope to be able to bring other live performances to the Village Hall in the future.”

Tickets for “Barnaby Rudge” at Fairlie Village Hall on 19th October at 7.30pm are available from Fairlie Community Association, Tel 07958 048908; email fairliecommass@gmail.com. Prices £10 adult; £9 concession; £6 under 16 (recommended age 12+)