THE Ladykillers is coming to Chapter Arts Centre from Tuesday, May 19 to Saturday 23.

A little old lady and her trusty parrot pit their wits against a desperate gang of criminals in a new version of a classic comedy.

Everyman Theatre presents The Ladykillers by Graham Linehan, based on the famous Ealing comedy screenplay by William Rose.

Lonely little old lady Mrs Wilberforce is delighted with her new lodger Professor Marcus. His lively circle of friends are keen amateur musicians who brighten her day when they come round to practice.

What she doesn’t know is that they are actually master criminals planning the biggest heist of their careers. When she unwittingly becomes embroiled in their scheme, she finds herself in terrible danger.

Will Mrs Wilberforce and her trusty parrot General Gordon win the day?

Director Marie-Claire Costley said: “The Ladykillers is a real tour de force, hilarious, poignant, scary and a tad surreal – all the things you’d expect from the co-writer of cult comedy Father Ted – but it’s also absolutely true to the original film.

“I’ve wanted to direct it since seeing the original West End production with Peter Capaldi playing Professor Marcus, played so brilliantly by Alec Guinness in the film.

“Comedy is really hard work but we’ve had amazing fun. We’ve been crying with laughter in rehearsals. If you’re after a night of pure escapism and fun, look no further.”

This sparkling adaptation of William Rose’s 1954 Ealing comedy by Graham Linehan (co-writer of Father Ted) remains true to spirit of the original film but is new, charming and very funny in its own right.

Tickets cost £10 or £8 for concessions (available only Tuesday and Thursday). To book visit the Chapter website at chapter.org or call the box office on 02920 304400.