Budding stage stars will be flocking to the Charles Cryer Theatre this week when the Spats Theatre School will be hosting one of their popular and entertaining Show In A Week projects.

With the aim of putting together a cast, rehearsing two plays and performing them for the public at the theatre itself, all in the space of five days, the idea is a breakneck run through the theatrical craft.

The concept is the brainchild of Stoneleigh’s John Hester, an actor and drama teacher, who founded Spats in 1990.

He explains: “We tried this a few times in the past, but last year was the first time in quite a while and it proved very popular.

“The kids come in, we split them into two age groups and start rehearsing straight away.

“Everyone is welcome and last year we had 15 in each group.

“The kids have a lot of respect for each other and want to put on a good show, so it is easy for me to keep control of the thing.”

The two plays this year will be Tales of Andersen and Shakespeare’s As You Like It, with a twist.

Hester adds: “I really wanted to do a Shakespeare play but you have to find a balance as I do not want to put anyone off who may think Shakespeare is boring.

“Shakespeare is often presented in a very dull, dry way so I have tweaked the play slightly to make it more wacky and the kids seem to respond to that.

“I will not be changing the language at all, but will be making it more accessible.

“The idea is obviously to put on a great show for the audience, and if the kids have a great time that is even better.”

Classes run from Monday to Thursday 10-4, with rehearsal on Friday and a 7.30pm show time.

Spats Theatre School, Charles Cryer Theatre, Carshalton, July 27-31, phone 020 82249580 or visit spatstheatreschool.com for more details