A NEW play that tackles issues surrounding the recent deaths of Chinese migrants arrives at The Door, Birmingham Repertory Theatre, for a short run.

Philippe Cherbonnier's play, 58, tells "the poignant story of a few whose struggle for freedom and a new life ended tragically - in memory of the 58 Chinese found dead amongst the crates of tomatoes in the back of a lorry at Dover in 2000."

A spokesman explains: "Kate starts work as a police exhibits officer at Dover while her husband Dave obsesses about living in a villa in Spain and winning the lottery.

"One of Kate's jobs involves cataloguing the clothes and possessions of 58 Chinese, found dead in a lorry.

"Meanwhile in China, Meng flees persecution, Lan seeks freedom and Chen moves to mend a broken heart. All three end up in the back of an ill-fated lorry with 55 others."

The play was researched with community groups in Britain, and the public's opinions on immigration are integrated into the play through video interviews.

The Yellow Earth production is directed David KS Tse, Britain's leading East Asian director and also a leading writer, recently awarded the Windrush Award for Arts Achiever 2004.

58 can be seen from October 27-30, evenings at 7.45pm. Tickets are £9.75 (£6.50 concessions) from the box office on 0121 236 4455 or online at: www.birmingham-rep.co.uk