IN its 60th anniversary year, the Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough, in association with Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre,

brings two productions written and directed by world-renowned playwright Alan Ayckbourn to Malvern Theatres as part of a major UK tour.

The world premiere of the author’s 79th play, Hero’s Welcome can be seen on Tuesday and Wednesday, March 1 and 2, with a major revival of the 1974 hit Confusions playing on Monday, February 29, and from Thursday, March 3 to Saturday, March 5.

From a devoted and isolated mother to her unfaithful travelling salesman husband, through a solicitous waiter to well-heeled diners and an utterly shambolic garden fete, Confusions sees human frailty laid bare as one hilarious situation after another unfolds.

Alan Ayckbourn said: “Confusions is an interesting stepping stone for me as you can see where the future is - Absent Friends, but you can also see the past - How The Other Half Loves - which is pure situation. It was written at a time when I wanted theatre to primarily show off actors.

Hero’s Welcome, Ayckbourn’s latest play, sees Murray returning to the neighbourhood he left 17 years ago under something of a cloud. Certain local folk have long memories, not least Alice, the mayor, whom he left standing at the altar. Once the welcome flags have stopped waving and the town band has ceased playing, few of his friends seem particularly happy to see him back.

Murray’s declared intention of staying put and settling down with his new bride threatens to stir up all sorts of old rivalries and resentments. Suddenly the couple, in search of peace, find themselves once more in the firing line.

Alan Ayckbourn says: “Hero’s Welcome is about the prodigal son, Murray, coming back to his home town. It explores the male rivalry between Murray and an old friend, Brad, who is fiercely competitive and will go to any lengths to win.”

To book, call the box office on 01684 892277 or visit malvern-theatres.co.uk