THE NATURAL Theatre Company presents its hilarious take on the antics of Rasputin, the legendary Russian Monk, next week at The Courtyard.

Frivolous and preposterous, Rasputin is a boisterous and irreverent romp through history with hysterical characters and staggering special effects. The show mixes broad humour and live classical music to create a stunning new take on the wild-eyed womaniser who scandalised Russian society nearly 100 years ago.

Directed by The Courtyard's own artistic director, Jonathan Stone, this musical features some astonishingly quick costume transformations and music pinched from the Russian greats. Musical director, Christopher Dickens, comes fresh from the West End run of The Gondoliers and designer, Roger Glossop, has worked extensively with Alan Ayckborn at the National Theatre.

"Rasputin really will be a frenzy of madcap musical mayhem - a fantastic fusion of everything that's great about a night out at the theatre," promises Mr Stone. "The sheer exuberance of the company will make for an unforgettable production."

Mr Stone, whose previous work at The Courtyard has gained critical acclaim, is directing the Natural Theatre Company for the first time. The show arrives in Hereford from Greenwich Theatre, London prior to a European tour next year. It's exciting to have such a large-scale production in Hereford.

Rasputin will be at The Courtyard for just three nights from November 15. Tickets in advance from the box office on 01432 359252 and from Tourist Information Centres in Hereford, Leominster, Ledbury and Ross.