A THEATRE group that has been making audiences laugh for more than 30 years heading to Teesdale for the first time.

The Reduced Shakespeare Company is bringing its new show, The Bible, The Complete Word of God (abridged) to The Witham, Barnard Castle, on Saturday, March 15.

It has been made possible thanks to a collaboration between the town's Funny Way To Be comedy club and the arts complex.

Peter Dixon, Funny Way To Be promoter, said the idea first came about when he interviewed members of the cast for Radio Teesdale, where he is station manager.

“Without The Witham theatre space it would have been impossible, so we joined forces so we could bring this top company to Barnard Castle.

“This particular show, simply because it tackles the Bible in a comedic way, has caused controversy in some quarters, but it's more a celebration of the good book than poking fun at people’s beliefs,” he added.

Since 1981, The Reduced Shakespeare Company has created eight stage shows, two television specials, several TV pilots and numerous radio pieces.

Tickets for The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged) are on sale now from funnywaytobe.com or at The Witham box office priced £15.