The creme de la creme for Next Stage

There is a rare chance to see the stage adaptation of Muriel Spark's novel The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in Bath next week.

The story, which was originally a book, then became a play starring Vanessa Redgrave and finally a film with Maggie Smith, is being performed at the Mission Theatre by Next Stage.

Where Next Stage scores in this case is having a strong youth group on which to draw for many of the key characters who, you may recall, are schoolgirls who go from 10-year-olds to young women who go to bed with the art master.

In fact, artistic director Ann Garner chose the play specially to highlight the fact that the youth and adult companies work so closely together. Indeed, it has been a main feature throughout their 15-year history with many talented youngsters going on to play major roles within the adult company.

Another reason for choosing the play is that they have a natural for the role of rebel schoolmistress Jean Brodie in Caroline Groom.

Such is the wealth of talent within Next Stage Youth that next week's performances include two separate casts for the main schoolgirls, although the non-speaking parts will remain the same throughout the week.

Now to cope with growing demand Next Stage productions will include a Saturday afternoon matinee at 2.30pm.

For tickets to the show call the box office on 01225 428600 or 463362.