MEMBERS of an amateur theatre company are inviting audiences to join them on a journey back to ancient Rome they stage a knockabout musical comedy.

The Durham Musical Theatre Company (DMTC) is busy with rehearsals for A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, which will be staged at Durham’s Gala Theatre from Wednesday. October 29, to Saturday, November 1.

DMTC spokesman Anthony Smith said: “Forum is a vaudevillian farce set in ancient Rome and like all farces, it is a fast-paced, high energy entertainment, with mistaken identities, cross-dressing, slamming doors, slaves outwitting their masters and the triumph of young love.

“This is the second time that DMTC has tackled this show, the previous production being in 1978.

"The new cast is working really hard to perfect the comic skills needed to bring this hilarious show to life, under the expert guidance of director Fred Wharton, musical director Steven Hood and choreographer Kathleen Knox, choreographer.

“It promises to be a night of mirth, merriment and unbridled humour.”

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum was written by Stephen Sondheim when he was only 32-years-old.

The show is staged at 7.15pm daily, with a 2.15pm Saturday matinee.

Tickets £18.50 (£16.50 on first night ). Concessions available.

Box office 03000 266600.