A production awash with deceit, passion, swordfights and surprises is set to visit Beaminster Festival.

Professional theatre company Rain or Shine, hailed by The Stage as "one of the best companies touring open air theatre' is set to delight family audiences this summer.

It will be bringing The Recruiting Officer by Irish playwright George Farquhar to Beaminster Manor on Sunday, June 26 at 2.30pm

The story follows the mischief of crooked arm recruiting officers, Captain Plume and Sergeant Kite, as they head to the county town of Shrewsbury to persuade men to take the Queen's shilling by any means, legal or otherwise.

Plume has set his sights on the vivacious Sylvia and their bumpy path to true love is mirrored by their closest friends, nervy, melancholy Worthy, and comically self-important heiress, Melinda.

Be prepared for a hilarious romp awash with deceit, passion, swordfights and surprises.

Pack your bubbly, chairs and picnics as join Captain Plume and Sergeant Kite on a roller coaster ride in period costume for all the family.

It is suitable for audiences from age six.

Tickets are available on the door or in advance from Beaminster Festival at beaminsterfestival.com