THE RSC's summer season continues with the dark comedy Twelfth Night, which previews at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre from Tuesday.

The story of twins Viola and Sebastian, shipwrecked with each believing the other to be drowned leading to a tale of disguise and mistaken identity before reunion and true love prevails, is one of Shakespeare's most popular comedies.

Directed by Michael Boyd, the play stars Kananu Kirimi as Viola.

Other cast members include Nicky Henson as Sir Toby Belch, Richard Cordery as Malvolio, Gurpeet Singh as Sebastian, Barnaby Kay as Orsino and John Mackay as Sir Andrew Aguecheek.

Twelfth Night runs until October on various dates. For details and to book tickets, contact the ticket hotline on 0870 609 1110 or go online at www.rsc.org.uk

Meanwhile, on Sunday, the RSC celebrates Shakespeare's birthday with an Open Day.

Festivities include talks, demonstrations and the chance to get close to an array of actors, including Vanessa and Corin Redgrave, Patrick Stewart and Samantha Bond.