THE controversial play which caused a storm after Hollywood star Nicole Kidman appeared naked in it, is to feature in the forthcoming programme at Worcester's Swan Theatre.

The Worcester Theatre Company is to present The Blue Room, a "clinical" look at men and women's constant quest for sexual satisfaction in which love-making becomes empty and joyless.

Inspired by Arthur Schnitzler's La Ronde - which scandalised the public in its original 1921 version and led to the writer facing prosecution for obscenity - the play was reworked by David Hare for the current version.

Artistic director Jenny Stephens said the controversial play demonstrated how staff at the theatre were dedicated to bringing the widest possible range of work to the stage while providing shows with an "edge".

In contrast, the season will include the Reduced Shakespeare Company's comic show The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged), and the classic E Nesbit story, The Railway Children.

"We plan to bring a wide range of theatrical treats this spring," said Ms Stephens.

"The Blue Room is a fantastic play but has a strong adult nature. Apart from that we'll also be producing a range of classic work and productions suitable for children and families."

In February, the theatre will show Alfred Uhry's Driving Miss Daisy, the story of a retired black worker who becomes a driver for a rich middle-class white widow in America's Deep South during the 1950s and 60s.

Later in the month, audiences will be invited into a chilling and sinister world courtesy of Creaking Shadows. The show is described as a chilling tale with a twist, guaranteed to make you quake with fear.

In March, the Compass Theatre Company, in association with the Worcester Swan Theatre, will present Waiting for Godot, the Samuel Beckett masterpiece about two tramps who spend their lives sitting under a tree and waiting for the elusive Godot.

Hull Truck Theatre will be On The Piste later in the month, with the Reduced Shakespeare Company sharing the real meaning of the good book with audiences between Monday, March 18, and Saturday, March 23.

In April, the theatre will show The Rivals, a story of love, deception and interfering aunts set in Regency Bath, which is described as a timeless comedy featuring the infamous Mrs Malaprop.

But for those wanting a different kind of comedy, the theatre's Stand Up Sundays will be returning with top comedians including Mark Steel and Dave Gorman.

For information on the season's productions or to purchase tickets contact the theatre's box office on 01905 27322.