THE tale of Captain Corelli's Mandolin is taken to the stage at the Courtyard Theatre, Hereford this week.

The stage version of Louis de Bernires' best-selling novel tells the story of Dr Iannis, his daughter Pelagia, the heroic soldier Carlo Guercio, Captain Antonio Corelli, and the love they all share.

It is a story of laughter and tears, the joy of love and, ultimately, the triumph of love over death.

Mike Maran Productions bring this epic story to the stage with two chickens, a couple of aubergines, three puppets, a tuba, a motorbike, some old photographs, a walking stick and a goat.

The show has sold out every single performance since it first opened in 1999, and advance booking is advised.

It begins at 7.30pm on Monday, April 23.

Tickets start at £7.50, available from the box office on 01432 359252.