STARRING two of the nations favourite actors, The Rivals is an immensely popular and beautifully crafted comedy of manners, blending wit, satire and an array of unforgettable characters to create one of the classic comic gems of the English stage. It takes to Malvern's Festival Theatre stage from Monday, November 7.

Set in 18th century Bath this delightful period romp introduces Mrs Malaprop, one of the funniest characters in the British theatre, the inspiration for the word malapropism and a truly great comic creation.

Even though her niece, Lydia, is as headstrong as an allegory on the banks of the Nile, Mrs Malaprop is determined to match her with a husband of her own choosing.

But Lydia has a penchant for romantic novels and has fallen in love with poor ensign Beverley. The good news is that Beverley is actually Captain Jack Absolute, playing below his rank in order to win her heart, much to the bemusement of his father, Sir Anthony, whom Mrs Malaprop describes as an absolute misanthropy.

Playing the exuberant Mrs Malaprop is Stephanie Cole, one of Britain's favourite actresses. Her diverse television roles include Doc Martin and Waiting For God (for which she won Best Actress in the British Comedy Awards). On stage she has enjoyed many great successes including A Passionate Woman and Quartet in the West End.

George Baker plays Sir Anthony. Well-known for the enormously popular role of Inspector Wexford in The Ruth Rendell Mysteries and also for Bowler and I Claudius on television, his films include The Dam Busters, On Her Majesty's Secret Service and The Spy Who Loved Me.

The Rivals runs at Malvern from Monday to Saturday, November 7 to 12. Call the box office on 01684 892277 or book on-line at www.malvern-theatres.co.uk.