THE Tavonians Theatre Company, in association with the National Trust and the RSC Open Stages project, present their new play celebrating the Bard, A Caper through Shakespeare, or Call it what you Will at Buckland Abbey this weekend.

In this joyous ensemble play the audience follows Will Shakespeare through adventures in imagination which inspire the themes of his much loved plays and sonnets. Observing love, ambition, jesting and rivalry in a travelling theatre troupe, Will finds his voice. The lively production draws on stories, poetry and characters that have timeless appeal, and it is set in a timeless age.

The play combines new writing with many extracts from Shakespeare and was created by The Tavonians Theatre Company, including three members who are all successful and published playwrights – Jayne Newton Chance, Sally Reid and Kit Walkham.

Natasha Buckley, lead director, said: 'It is most rewarding to see how the company has fully embraced a new style and convention of theatre, making this a wholly ensemble piece, with little music, minimum set and props but with great imagination and flair.

'The enthusiasm and dedication of the company is to be highly commended. With a wide range of ages and experience combined with the stunning backdrop of Buckland Abbey, we hope that you will thoroughly delight in this entertainment.'

As the weather is not looking promising performances are going to be in the Great Barn. The barn has a wonderful atmosphere but it is likely to be cold and the audience is advised to dress warmly. Picnics are welcomed or get snacks and drinks at Buckland Abbey's National Trust restaurant. Performances are this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 7pm. Gates open at 6pm.

Tickets are £12 and can be booked by phone from Buckland Abbey on 01822 853607, or go to http://www.tavonians.org.uk">www.tavonians.org.uk.

This production has been selected to be in the Royal Shakespeare Company Open Stages project, marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death. An extract from it, along with extracts from other south west productions, will be shown at the Hall for Cornwall in Truro on June 19.