A THEATRE company is hoping that its touring "soap opera for the stage" will boost a children's charity when it plays The Met at Bury.

The Latecomers Theatre Company from Manchester is just beginning a tour with Farnworth-born playwright Jim Cartwright's famous play "Two" -- originally premiered at Bolton's Octagon.

The action takes place in a Northern pub over one night's drinking but underneath the bonhomie, the landlord and landlady harbor a dark secret.

Two actors play 14 characters in this powerful drama, which is funny, poignant and explosive.

As well as attracting the usual theatregoers, the company wants people who do not normally attend the theatre to go along.

They believe experience of a 'live' production would persuade even the most sceptical that such productions, especially ones which have received such critical acclaim, could produce a new generation of stage enthusiasts.

"This is a kind of soap opera for the stage," explained Latecomers' spokeswoman Susan Hargreaves. "It's a bit like 'Phoenix Nights' in its appeal.

"We think that anyone would enjoy it -- such as people in the 18 to 30 age bracket, who might normally think the theatre is stuffy".

The company is non-profit making, and was founded last year by Susan. It has already had a successful run with Alan Bennett's "Talking Heads" and all proceeds from the current tour will go towards the Francis House Children's Hospice.

The Met is the first stop in the eight-venue tour which finishes in Manchester on May 22.

Tickets are available from 0161-761-2216.