OWEN Lewis’ Portable Theatre Company (OLPTC) will be showcasing yet more Shropshire-based acting talent during its tour of two new plays this month.

The Astounding Works of Simon Trout and No Man’s Land will be staged at venues in Whitchurch, Oswestry, Church Stretton and finally Shrewsbury, where the company is delighted to be returning to Theatre Severn. Both plays deal with the theme of family conflict but in very different ways. Owen Lewis’ The Astounding Works of Simon Trout takes a whimsical look at some of the hidden subtexts in family relationships from a magical, unearthly viewpoint. No Man’s Land, which is written by director Ceri Wright and her husband David, examines a family’s struggle through Christmas affected by a major revelation.

Having already set a precedent with previous productions OLPTC continues to explore the concept of performing two very different one-act plays. “We find that this not only showcases our diversity as a theatre company, but also gives our audience two, refreshing chances of finding something with which they can identify,” said Ceri Wright.

Based in Shrewsbury, the theatre company has grown rapidly over the past three years, and is excited to be constantly increasing its number of followers and expanding its roster of actors. Technical producer Adam Beresford-Browne explains: “One of our main goals is to open up the world of theatre to everyone, regardless of experience. We have been very lucky over the years to have found so many talented technicians, directors and actors to work with, many of whom had never been on or near a stage before. We are always keen to hear from anyone in Shropshire who would like to get involved."

For full tour dates and booking details, visit olptc.com