THE Wells Theatre Festival will present another exciting programme of world class professional theatre and performance between July 11 and 14.

They have announced the casting for this year’s community production of William Shakespeare’s romantic comedy, Much Ado About Nothing.

The community production, performed in front of the majestic Wells Cathedral has a cast made up entirely of local residents, some of whom have never performed in public before. The Creative Team are all professionals who volunteer their time, led by Artistic Director Rosalind Johnson.

This year’s company is made up of a mix of returning stars and some new faces from among the residents of Wells and surrounding area.

Lee Housley who played Sampson and Balthasar last year has landed the leading role of Benedick alongside newcomer Jennie Harris as Beatrice.

He said: “I love Shakespeare. I think Benedick is a wonderfully written character. He’s essentially ridiculous which suits me as I sympathise with him! I played two small roles in last year’s production of Romeo and Juliet and fond the experience joyous and rewarding. I couldn’t wait for the Wells Theatre Festival to roll around for its second year. Ros, the director does such a calm and meticulous job that she makes it easy for us.”

Jennie who is 22 is from Bristol but grew up in Wells, plans to move to London to study acting at the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts.

Booking will open in mid April. To find out more visit www.wellstheatrefestival.org