STRIKING physicality, puppetry and live music will merge to depict a tale of local legends, hidden history and sea shanties at the Maltings Arts Theatre in St Albans next week. Acclaimed physical theatre company Angel Exit Theatre, in conjunction with Dor

STRIKING physicality, puppetry and live music will merge to depict a tale of local legends, hidden history and sea shanties at the Maltings Arts Theatre in St Albans next week.

Acclaimed physical theatre company Angel Exit Theatre, in conjunction with Dorchester Arts, are bringing their production of Moonfleet to the venue on Friday, November 6.

It's inspired by J Mead Falkner's smuggling tale of the same title and is set in a fishing village beside Chesil Beach in Dorset.

The story follows a young orphan who is told scary ghost tales by a landlord and local fisherman who attempt to keep youngsters away from the churchyard and the smuggling trade they undertake there.

But the boy, who is raised by his pious aunt, attempts to unearth some hidden treasure which soon finds him clashing with both smugglers and excise men.

Part love story and part coming-of-age tale, the audience are promised a gripping adventure.

The play is devised, directed and performed by Angel Exit, with original music by Tom Ball and costumes and puppets by Jodie Gardner. It's funded by the Arts Council England, West Dorset District Council and Dorset County Council.

The sets are formed with authentic driftwood, rope and shells gathered from Chesil Beach, as are the sounds of the tide on the pebbles.

To book tickets for the show contact the Box Office on 01727 844222.