A LOCAL actor is to take on a leading role in the West End hit thriller 'Speaking In Tongues', when it comes to two local theatres in February.

David Watkinson, from Okehampton, will star in the play in which a woman has disappeared, and nine people become entangled in a web of love, deceit, sex and death.

The production by the Uncommon Players will be performed at Exeter's Northcott theatre and the Bushell Theatre in Newton Abbot.

Combining a thriller with warmth and wit, the play will be performed entirely by local actors.

Director Anthony Richards said: 'I know there are a number of skilled and energetic actors in this part of Devon. Uncommon Players is a new project which aims to bring them together to share skills and to perform interesting plays to a high standard.

'It's like we're lowering the carbon footprint of theatre art by sourcing top-quality local ingredients!'

David Watkinson has been in the film business since the age of 16, and on stage for around 12 years. He has now appeared in many plays at the Exeter Northcott, as well as touring the West Country in 2007.

The group is supported by Exeter College and Common Players Theatre Company and the play can be seen at the Northcott on February 21 and 22, and the Bushell Theatre on February 25. Tickets are available from the theatres.