THIS month, the Young Actors of North Tawton (YANTS) are turning their hand to comedy and will be presenting two one-act plays for audiences in the town nightly on November 24, 25 and 26.

The plays are N J Warburton's 'Ghost Writer' and Donna Brightwell's 'After School Special'.

YANTS leaders Sarah Cacchio and Tracey Norman said the production was something of a departure for the group, who are known for their lively, vibrant musicals.

'This year, we have gone for a smaller-scale show, concentrating on characterisation.

'It gives the students a chance to undertake new challenges and further develop their acting skills.'

In 'Ghost Writer', Jeffrey and Belinda are trying to work out how to finish their murder play, but it is not going well.

They are helped by an obliging ghost, who brings their characters vividly to life in order to demonstrate the numerous difficulties they face in successfully putting on their show.

Along the way, they have to deal with an interfering director, disruptive audience members and the ever-present threat of 12 one-legged pirates before the ghost settles everything to his own satisfaction.

'After School Special' sees Julie, Taylor, Chris and Scott all needing dates for their senior prom, but none of them are willing to make the first move.

They all end up in a coffee shop, trying to work out what to do.

Fortunately for them, they receive some gentle — if rather unsubtle — assistance from the waitress, Kristie, a college girl.

She gives them all a nudge in the right direction and provides some invaluable advice to neurotic Julie.

Eventually, the seniors manage to sort themselves out, watched with bemusement by sophomore Kim.

Tracey said: 'We have had a lot of fun putting these plays together.

'Many of the ideas have come from the students themselves – they are wonderfully imaginative and we always encourage their suggestions.

'We are really enjoying the way the shows are developing and how the students are embellishing their characters.'

YANTS' Evening of Comedy will be staged at North Tawton Town Hall, with performances each evening at 7.30pm.

Tickets, £6 adults, £4 14 and under, are available from North Tawton Post Office on 01837 82241.