An acclaimed noir-inspired thriller is heading for Sheringham Little Theatre after a chance meeting between the play's co-author and the venue's director.

The Bear, produced by Angela Clerkin and the Improbable theatre company, will be on stage at the community theatre this Saturday at 7.30pm.

It has been directed by Lee Simpson and the story is about a murder and a mythical bear.

A man on trial for murdering his wife's lover tells the clerk for his defence team that it was not him who committed the crime, but a bear instead.

The play will be coming to north Norfolk after Little Theatre director, Debbie Thompson sat opposite Ms Clerkin at an Edinburgh Festival event and recognised her from a previous production the pair had been involved in.

Mrs Thompson said: 'Angela and I were in Václav Havel's Temptation together in West End, about 25 years ago.

'When we caught up we told each other what we were doing now and I said how much we would love to have The Bear in Sheringham.'

The Bear promises to be a funny, challenging and beautiful story which creates a dangerous and alluring atmosphere.

'I think audiences in Sheringham will find it very exciting. It is quite unlike anything else we have here before.

'It will give younger people the opportunity to experience a very different kind of production while older members of the audience will enjoy seeing this distinctive film style translated into live theatre,' Mrs Thompson added.

Tickets cost £10, or £5 for students. They can be bought by ringing 01263 822347 or visiting www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com.